The Gallery at Tempe Center for the Arts, sponsored by Northern Trust, is holding a biomimicry challenge that will give an artist studio space for 10 weeks during the challenge.

The gallery is collaborating with the Biomimicry Center and LeRoy Erying Center for Solid State Science at Arizona State University for an exhibition from May 19 through July 28, exploring biomimicry solutions and nature-inspired contemporary art.

Arizona visual artists may apply to use one of three studio spaces available during the exhibition. Winning artists will be selected by a jury panel and will be eligible for a stipend.

It is free to apply; the deadline is Jan. 20.

The challenge encourages artists to think beyond creating work that is inspired by nature: proposals should be based on emulating nature to solve human challenges. During the residency, artists will work in the gallery studio to create a new piece of art, a series of works or a site-specific installation.

Visitors will be able to watch the artist's progress throughout the summer.