Best Art Residencies in North America

A Position on Retreat

Lake Cowichan, Vancouver Island, Canada

A Position on Retreat, an artist residency situated in Lake Cowichan on Vancouver Island, Canada, offers a serene environment for artists from diverse disciplines. Known as 'The Blue House,' this comfortably renovated home sits at the center of a picturesque tourist town, surrounded by Canada's breathtaking natural landscape. Within a five-minute walk, residents have access to grocery stores, charming coffee houses, restaurants, beautiful beaches, and scenic hiking trails. Enveloped by a temperate rainforest, ancient old-growth forests, the vast Pacific Ocean, and numerous lakes and waterfalls, the residency is a haven for creative inspiration and rejuvenation. A Position on Retreat strikes a perfect balance between community engagement and the tranquility of nature, providing artists with an ideal setting for both creativity and reflection. This artist residency on Vancouver Island is an exemplary retreat for artists who seek to immerse themselves in nature and focus on their creative pursuits. It's an environment where the natural beauty and calm of the surroundings contribute significantly to the artistic process, making it a sought-after destination for artists looking to enrich their practice.

A Studio in the Woods

New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

A Studio in the Woods, a beacon of artistic and environmental collaboration located at the heart of Southeastern Louisiana, serves as a sanctuary where artists of diverse disciplines converge to explore the profound relationship between humanity and nature. This organization is dedicated to supporting artists passionate about addressing the critical issue of our time: the intricate bond between human beings and the environment. By facilitating residencies, A Studio in the Woods nurtures meaningful interactions between artists and the local community, ensuring that the rich culture and ecology of the region inform and inspire the creative process. Residencies are offered across a wide spectrum of artistic fields, welcoming both established and emerging talents who share a commitment to public engagement and a rigorous work ethic. Positioned at the nexus of the City of New Orleans, a vast hardwood forest, the Mississippi River, the Gulf of Mexico, and extensive alluvial wetlands, the studio offers a unique backdrop against which artists are invited to delve into their projects, influenced by the dynamic environmental context.

Art Omi

Ghent, New York, United States

Art Omi offers five distinct residency programs for international artists, writers, architects, musicians, and dancers. Located in Columbia County, New York, the residency provides artists with time, space, and resources to create, experiment, and collaborate in a rural setting. The residency programs are fully funded, covering accommodations, meals, and studio space. Each program has its own application process and focuses on different creative fields, encouraging a diverse range of artists from around the world. Art Omi is committed to cultural exchange and professional development, offering participants opportunities to engage with peers and visiting professionals from various creative industries. The residency fosters an environment of collaboration, community, and artistic exploration in an inspiring, natural setting.

Bloedel Reserve

Bainbridge Island, Washington, United States

The Creative Residency at Bloedel Reserve offers a unique opportunity for artists and researchers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Bainbridge Island, Washington. Established in 2015, the program hosts creative individuals from various disciplines, providing them with a serene and inspiring environment. Residents stay in a fully furnished home nestled within the 140-acre reserve, with access to its sculpted gardens, forests, and wildlife habitats. The program is designed to foster creative thinking inspired by nature and explore the connection between humans and the environment. Each resident receives a $1,000 stipend to support their work and is encouraged to engage with the public through presentations, workshops, or other community activities. The residency is open to professional and emerging artists, composers, writers, botanists, and other creative thinkers. Participants must be 21 years or older, and the residency can accommodate only one artist at a time. The program offers an enriching experience for those looking to deepen their connection with nature and their creative practice.

Eyes on Main Street

Wilson, North Carolina, United States

Eyes on Main Street Residency in Wilson, North Carolina, offers a unique opportunity for photographers with a strong sense of street photography to develop their portfolios by exploring and capturing the essence of Wilson and its surroundings. This residency is open to both domestic and international photographers, emphasizing the development of photographic works that reflect the local environment.

Hambidge

Rabun Gap, Georgia, United States

The Hambidge Center, nestled on 600 acres in the North Georgia mountains, stands as the oldest residency program in the Southeast, committed to supporting the creative process across a wide array of disciplines. It welcomes visual artists, writers, dancers, musicians, ceramicists, chefs, scientists, and arts administrators, offering two-week to eight-week self-directed residencies. Each resident is provided with a private studio and living space, complemented by communal vegetarian meals four nights a week. This environment fosters solitude and interaction among a small group of residents, encouraging both deep work and meaningful exchange. Financial aid and Distinguished Fellowships are available to support artists during their stay. The Center’s setting offers a connection with nature, featuring trails, waterfalls, and a rich biodiversity that can inspire and rejuvenate any creative endeavor. Facilities include specialized equipment for various practices, such as the Antinori Pottery Studio and a Steinway grand piano, ensuring that artists have the resources they need. Accessibility is considered, with ADA-compliant studios available, though the natural, unpaved terrain may limit mobility for some.

James Castle House

Boise, Idaho, United States

The James Castle House in Boise, Idaho, offers several residency programs for artists, scholars, and creators to immerse themselves in the history and legacy of James Castle. These programs include a 10-week residency, a short-stay residency, and project-based residencies, each designed to foster new work that contributes to understanding the site. Participants receive private living quarters, studio space, and a stipend, enabling them to focus on their projects without financial burden. Residents are expected to engage with the Boise community through public events, such as workshops and open studios. The residencies are open to emerging and mid-career artists and professionals from any field, provided their work is compatible with the site’s limitations. The James Castle House residency programs emphasize daily creativity and experimentation, maintaining the artist’s legacy. Located in the vibrant Collister neighborhood, the house provides easy access to Boise’s downtown and natural surroundings. The program seeks to cultivate a growing local and national community, deepening the public’s understanding of James Castle’s life and work.

KinoSaito

Verplanck, New York, United States

KinoSaito is an interdisciplinary art center located in Verplanck, New York, dedicated to fostering the creation and practice of abstract art while encouraging experimentation across various forms and mediums. Founded to honor the legacy of the Japanese-American artist Kikuo Saito, the center provides artists with a serene environment to explore and develop their creative practices without the distractions of daily life. KinoSaito offers a residency program that hosts artists for six-week sessions, providing them with spacious studios, loft living quarters, and access to a vibrant artistic community. The residency program is designed to support artists in deepening their focus on their work, encouraging both independent creation and collaboration. In addition to the residency, KinoSaito engages the public through exhibitions, performances, and workshops, making it a vital space for artistic exchange and growth. Through its programs, KinoSaito continues Saito’s vision of an art free of borders and definitions, where the process of making and moving is celebrated.

Lighthouse Works

Fishers Island, New York, United States

The Lighthouse Works Fellowship Program stands out as a comprehensive support system for artists, curators, and writers working at the forefront of their fields. Located on Fishers Island, New York, the program offers six-week residencies throughout the year, providing participants with housing, meals, studio space, and a $1,750 financial stipend. Fellows are accommodated in a three-story Victorian house, sharing kitchens and living spaces while enjoying private bedrooms. The program's commitment to catering to all dietary needs, combined with communal dinners prepared by the staff, fosters a warm, collaborative atmosphere among residents. Studio spaces, situated 1.5 miles from the housing, overlook the ocean and are equipped with necessary facilities including a wood and metal shop and a kiln. With a primary focus on the advancement of individual projects, Lighthouse Works encourages a culture of productivity and creative exchange. This is facilitated through minimal formal obligations, save for participation in an Artist Talk and an Open Studio event that bookends each fellowship session. These interactions, coupled with the intimate scale of the program, promote rich dialogue, critique, and potential collaboration among fellows. Applications for the fellowship are invited annually through an open call on Slideroom, running from September to October, with a selection process concluding in mid-January. Artistic excellence is the cornerstone of selection criteria, ensuring a diverse and vibrant cohort of fellows each year.

MacDowell

Peterborough, New Hampshire, United States

MacDowell offers a nurturing environment for artists of exceptional talent to work in peace and collaboration. Situated in Peterborough, NH, and with a New York City office, MacDowell provides studio space, accommodations, and three daily meals for residencies up to six weeks, free of charge. The foundation supports artists in various disciplines, including architecture, film/video arts, interdisciplinary arts, literature, music composition, theatre, and visual arts, emphasizing artistic excellence as the sole criterion for acceptance. Applications are welcomed from artists worldwide, promoting a diverse and inclusive community. MacDowell is dedicated to a more equitable arts sector, offering barrier-free access to its main buildings and some studios. Financial assistance for travel and other residency-related expenses is available, highlighting MacDowell's commitment to accessibility for artists at all stages of their careers. The application process is thorough, encouraging artists to review guidelines and FAQs. MacDowell has temporarily suspended the reference letter requirement to lower barriers for applicants, particularly women and BIPOC artists. A $30 processing fee applies, with waivers available for those experiencing financial hardship. Fellows are selected by distinguished panels in each discipline, ensuring a broad spectrum of artistic practices and inquiries are represented. MacDowell encourages collaboration, allowing small groups to apply, though it cannot accommodate partners, children, or other family members not involved in the project. This prestigious residency aims to foster artistic growth, offering a peaceful retreat for creative exploration and production.

Mana Contemporary

Jersey City, United States

Mana Contemporary is a distinguished cultural institution with locations in Jersey City, Chicago, and Miami, dedicated to supporting the creative process across multiple disciplines. This residency program is known for its comprehensive approach to fostering artistic experimentation, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Each location offers unique facilities and opportunities, from vast former industrial spaces transformed into studios and galleries to engaging in community-specific programs such as the Miami Exchange and the Focus on Puerto Rico. Mana Contemporary's residencies are enriched with global exhibitions, fellowships, and public programs, promoting a dynamic interaction among artists, the public, and the broader artistic community.

MASS MoCA

North Adams, Massachusetts, United States

Assets for Artists at MASS MoCA is a dynamic residency program located in North Adams, Massachusetts, designed to support artists across various disciplines. The program provides a platform for visual artists and writers, offering studio spaces and housing on the expansive MASS MoCA campus. Applicants are accepted through an inclusive process that prioritizes equity and diversity, aiming to support artists from all career stages and backgrounds. Residencies are largely self-directed, giving artists the autonomy to focus on their creative goals in an inspiring environment. Artists can apply for general residencies, which include options for financial aid and fellowships, or specific programs like the Early Application or Alumni Application, each tailored to different needs and stages in an artist's career. The residency is committed to anti-oppression, providing a nurturing space for artists to explore and grow their work amidst the cultural richness of the Berkshires. The program is part of the broader mission of MASS MoCA to facilitate the growth of artists and the creative economy, supported by several key partnerships and funders.

Montello Foundation

Montello, Nevada, United States

The Montello Foundation, established to support artists who enhance our understanding of nature and its need for protection, offers a unique residency experience in the Nevada desert. Since its inception, the Foundation has been dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and awareness of nature's fragility. Artists are encouraged to engage in creative exploration, contemplation, and innovation, reflecting on humanity's relationship with the natural world. Located in an isolated valley in Northeastern Nevada, the Foundation offers a retreat designed for solitary reflection amidst the desert landscape. The residency provides artists with a space that supports both their physical needs and their artistic work. The main structure, designed with minimal environmental impact, includes separate areas for living and working, promoting creativity and inspiration. Each year, the Foundation invites six artists from various disciplines and career stages to engage with the desert environment and the local community. The selection process for the residency is conducted by the Foundation's board members, focusing on the quality and relevance of the artists' work to the Foundation's mission. The residency experience is transformative, offering artists a chance to recalibrate and reassess their connection to nature and their creative process. The Foundation's commitment to solitude and reflection allows artists to immerse themselves in their work, free from the usual distractions of daily life. This approach has a profound impact on the residents, as evidenced by their reflections and the work they produce during their stay.

Pocoapoco

Oaxaca de Juarez, Mexico

Pocoapoco is a cultural organization located in Oaxaca de Juarez, Mexico, focusing on contemporary arts, social practices, and transcultural dialogues. The organization hosts five-week residencies from September to April each year, fostering an environment for international and local residents to think, work, discuss, and collaborate. The program emphasizes shared practice and dialogue, aiming to support and connect individuals, ideas, and practices to catalyze social discourse, understanding, and change. Residents at Pocoapoco include a diverse range of participants, from social and cultural workers to fine artists, musicians, and researchers, all engaging in active observation, dialogue, and reflection. The residency facilitates interdisciplinary exchange through meals, conversations, and presentations. Additionally, the program integrates activities that require residents to share their work with the public, enhancing both personal and communal development. The residency program is bilingual (English and Spanish) and includes housing, meals, workspace access, and photo documentation of work. It uniquely operates on a sliding scale fee system to accommodate a wide range of financial capabilities, reflecting Pocoapoco’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement.

Robert McLaughlin Gallery (RMG)

Oshawa, Canada

The Robert McLaughlin Gallery’s RBC Emerging Artist Residency Program supports ambitious and experimental emerging artists by providing them with the time and space to develop their practice. The program includes a 15-week residency followed by an eight-week solo exhibition, allowing artists to create new work, experiment with bold ideas, and connect with the community. Residents receive professional support and consultation, as well as promotion through the gallery’s communication channels. The program emphasizes professional development through workshops, meetings with curatorial staff, and public programming opportunities. Open to emerging artists within commuting distance of the gallery in Oshawa, Ontario, the residency is designed for those with a small body of work and some public exhibition experience. Participants benefit from access to innovative studio and exhibition spaces and are encouraged to make meaningful connections with visitors and the community. The program also provides a stipend, material support, and an artist exhibition fee to help cover costs associated with production, travel, and installation. The residency fosters growth and experimentation in emerging artistic practices, nurturing creativity and connection within Durham Region and beyond.

Sam & Adele Golden Foundation for the Arts

New Berlin, New York, United States

The Sam & Adele Golden Foundation for the Arts offers a distinctive artist residency focused on painters, located in the scenic environs of New Berlin, New York. This residency, housed within a refurbished 19th-century barn near the Golden Artist Colors manufacturing site, provides a rich environment for artists to deeply engage with the full spectrum of painting materials and technologies. Each residency session grants artists access to innovative and experimental paint products alongside traditional mediums, facilitated by the proximity to the Golden Artist Colors labs and production facilities. The program, operational since 2012, supports up to three artists per session, with each session lasting four weeks. Artists benefit from large, open studio spaces, a private apartment, and comprehensive material resources at no cost, thanks to fundraising efforts like art auctions. The goal is to immerse artists in exploratory work that pushes the boundaries of paint as a medium, backed by expert technical support from paint technicians and formulators. Residencies are awarded through a competitive, juried process, emphasizing artistic quality and professional dedication. Artists are encouraged to bring their own tools and substrates but are provided with a wide array of paints and materials. This setting not only offers a retreat into nature but also fosters a communal atmosphere through shared facilities and organized activities that encourage creative and professional growth.

Sharpe-Walentas Studio Program

Brooklyn, New York, United States

The Sharpe-Walentas Studio Program awards rent-free, non-living studio space to 17 visual artists for year-long residencies in DUMBO, Brooklyn. Selected annually based on merit from a competitive pool of applicants by a professional jury, the program is open to professional visual artists 21 years or older who live in the US, as well as US citizens or permanent residents living abroad. The studios feature high ceilings, elevator access, and communal spaces including a kitchen, slop sinks, restrooms, and a sitting area with wi-fi. Artists have 24/7 access to their studios and are expected to spend at least 20 hours per week in the studio, participate in the spring open studios event, and maintain all communal spaces. The residency does not provide housing or financial stipends, and applicants must not be enrolled in any degree program or maintain a separate studio during their residency.

Sitka Center for Art and Ecology

Otis, Oregan, United States

The Sitka Center for Art and Ecology, nestled in Otis, Oregon, operates with a profound commitment to fostering creativity at the intersection of art and nature. Through its residency programs, running from October to May, the Center offers artists, writers, musicians, architects, and scholars in natural science the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the inspiring natural setting of Cascade Head and the Salmon River estuary. Each year, up to 50 residents from a variety of disciplines and career stages find solace and inspiration on the campus for up to three months at no charge. In addition to focusing on their work, residents engage in community outreach, conducting free exhibits, lectures, and scholarly research, making their stay not only a personal transformative journey but also a contribution to the local and educational community. Sitka's comprehensive approach includes not only residencies but also extensive workshop programs and youth art education, enriching the creative and ecological knowledge of individuals of all ages. The Center, equipped with various studios and residences set within an 80-acre preserve, provides the perfect backdrop for both solitary reflection and communal exchange. Residents benefit from private living spaces, studios, and communal areas, all designed to support their creative processes within a serene environment that encourages exploration of the natural world.

Skowhegan

Skowhegan, Maine, United States

Skowhegan, a notable summer residency program established in 1946 in Maine, focuses on engaging emerging visual artists with studio practices and peer interactions. Set on a 350-acre rural campus, it offers a collaborative environment for participants and faculty, emphasizing process, experimentation, and open dialogue. The program includes residents from diverse backgrounds and experience levels, with no educational prerequisites. Faculty provide mentorship through studio visits and lectures, but traditional instruction is absent, allowing artists complete freedom in their creative pursuits. Accommodations are shared, and studios are open 24 hours, encouraging work amidst woods and pastures. Technical facilities, including a wood and metal shop and a Media Lab, support various artistic needs. Skowhegan's unique offerings include a fresco workshop and a comprehensive art library, fostering a dynamic, community-driven artistic experience.

The Residency Project (TRP)

Silverton, United States

The Residency Project (TRP) in Silverton, Colorado, offers a unique artist residency experience situated at 9,318 feet in the San Juan Mountains. This program emphasizes creative research, reflection, and connection rather than production, allowing artists to draw inspiration from the stunning natural landscape. Acknowledging the land’s history and the Ute Indians’ heritage, TRP respects and honors the indigenous roots of the area. The Retreat @ 1303 provides accommodations, studio space, programmed excursions, and group meals, fostering a collaborative and exploratory environment. TRP champions creative experimentation, equity, diversity, inclusion, social justice, and environmental justice. Founded in 2018 by artist Sarah Umles, TRP evolves with each artist-in-residence, embracing co-authorship in redefining the artist residency model. Influenced by Joseph Beuys’ social sculpture and Nicolas Bourriaud’s relational aesthetics, TRP envisions itself as an adaptable, itinerant project open to new spaces and collaborations.