How to Apply to an Artist Residency

Sometimes you just need to take a little time away from the pressures of work and home life to focus on writing or making art. There are a wide range of artist residencies available for all kinds of artists, from emerging to established career artists.

Things You'll Need

  • Internet connection
  • Passport (optional)
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Completed application form
  • Project proposal
  • Artist statement
  • Slides or digital photos of your work
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine how long you want to be away. Artist residencies range anywhere from one week to a year.

    • 2

      Determine your financial needs. Can you afford to take time off from work and travel to work on your artwork or writing? Create a budget that reflects your personal needs. Your budget will determine whether you can apply to residencies that you need to pay for or whether you are limited to residencies that offer free rent and a living stipend.

    • 3

      Begin your search on the internet. There are websites geared towards helping artists find residencies that are a good fit for them. The content of these websites is organized so you can browse through multiple artistic opportunities - comparing location, requirements, and costs - in just a few easy clicks. Choose several residencies that you are interested in applying to.

    • 4

      Carefully review the application and see what the residency requires. Most residencies require a curriculum vitae, a personal artist statement, a project proposal and examples of past work. Most allow you to submit your application via email, but some only accept materials via post. Read the application carefully to determine how the residency wants you to submit materials; it makes a difference to submit specifically what is requested. The application will also help you plan to work within your deadline.

    • 5

      Prepare your materials. Update your curriculum vitae, fill our the application, gather examples of your best work and write your project proposal.

    • 6

      Have a trusted friend or colleague review your application before sending it in.

    • 7

      Email or mail your finished residency proposal.