The United States Mint is inviting artists from throughout the United States to apply for participation in its Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) to help enrich and invigorate the design of coins and medals.

The new invitations seek up to six associate designers who will join the current AIP designers under contract with the program. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis beginning September 1, 2009. There will be three deadlines (November 9, 2009; March 8, 2010; and July 6, 2010), after which the artists who have applied will be evaluated for selection to the AIP. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible prior to the deadline for which they wish to be considered.

“We are very excited about this unique program and its latest call to tap into the best artistic talent in the country,” said United States Mint Director Ed Moy. “This is a tremendous opportunity for artists representing all types of backgrounds to inspire and educate the entire Nation.”

The United States Mint encourages applications from artists representing diverse backgrounds and a variety of interests reflecting those of the American people. Applicants may apply online by submitting five to 10 works from their portfolios, a resume and a statement of intent. They will also complete a standard application coin design exercise. Applicants must be professional artists who are U.S. citizens. Those who wish to apply are invited to visit www.usmint.gov/artists, where they will find program details, eligibility requirements, artistic criteria and detailed application guidelines. Submissions will be evaluated on several factors, including drawing ability, compositional skills and the level to which the design demonstrates research of the subject matter.

Artists awarded contracts to participate in the program will be paid established fees for their work, and those whose designs are selected for coins and medals will be named as designer in historical documents, Certificates of Authenticity and promotional materials.
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