Best Sound / Music Residencies

A Position on Retreat

Lake Cowichan, 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, 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, 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.

Arthereistanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

Arthereistanbul, founded in 2014 in Istanbul, Turkey, was initially established to provide Syrian artists facing difficulties with a space for artistic creation, away from the impacts of war and political strife. This unique residency offers a haven for artists to work, exhibit their creations, and sustain themselves through a café and the organization of workshops, screenings, and performances. Emphasizing a custom-made residency program, Arthereistanbul opens its doors to artists, researchers, curators, and writers from all backgrounds, aligning projects with the residency’s vision. The program encourages research, creativity, and cultural exchanges among Syrian, Turkish, and international artists, aiming to foster dialogue, diversity, and understanding. Arthereistanbul equips its residents with studio spaces, archive rooms, exhibition and performance areas, and technical facilities, including a dark room and woodworking tools. Accommodation is provided in Kadiköy, near the residency space, ensuring a comfortable and conducive environment for artistic and cultural exploration.

Björkö Konstnod (BKN)

Björkö, Sweden

Björkö Konstnod (BKN) is an artist-run, non-profit organization located in Björkö, Sweden, offering residencies predominantly to visual, performance, and sound-based artists. Founded in 2020, BKN provides a unique environment for artists to focus on their practice in a peaceful rural milieu where the forest meets the sea. The residency includes access to well-equipped studios, workshops, darkrooms, and other facilities. BKN fosters a peer-based environment encouraging collaborative and site-sensitive exploration. Artists are selected through open calls and are expected to participate in maintaining the workspace and engaging with the local community. While BKN offers studio grants, artists cover their living expenses.

Bloedel Reserve

Bainbridge Island, 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.

Bogliasco Foundation

Bogliasco, Italy

The Bogliasco Foundation offers fellowships to exceptional individuals who are developing significant new work in the arts and humanities. Located in Bogliasco, Italy, these fellowships are open to scholars and artists of any nationality, age, race, religion, or gender, provided they are not students in a degree-granting program. The Foundation values applicants who demonstrate they would thrive in an intimate, international, multilingual community of scholars and artists. Fellowships are awarded twice annually and provide recipients with a one-month residency at the Foundation's Study Center in Italy. During their stay, fellows are provided with accommodation, meals, and a personal workspace, fostering an environment conducive to creative and scholarly work.

Bundanon

Illaroo, Australia

Bundanon's Artists in Residence program, set within the cultural and natural landscape of Australia, is one of the most extensive of its kind nationally. Established by Arthur and Yvonne Boyd, the program has been operational since 1997, supporting over 250 artists annually across all creative disciplines, including visual arts, writing, music, and performance. Located in a region renowned for its scenic beauty, this program not only offers a retreat for artists but also a vibrant community space for creative exploration and public engagement. The residency facilities at Bundanon include studios, rehearsal spaces, and accommodation in single and shared apartments, as well as self-contained cottages capable of hosting up to 10 people. The program is designed to encourage artistic development without the pressure of specified outcomes, allowing for experimental and exploratory approaches to art-making. This supportive environment is supplemented by various fellowships and awards, aimed at providing financial assistance and facilitating creative growth. Structured through collaborations with various arts organizations and cultural agencies, Bundanon’s residency program serves as an incubator for innovative practices and a forum for cultivating deep connections among artists from around the world. With its commitment to diversity and inclusion, the program particularly encourages applications from First Nations artists, artists with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse artists, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Callie’s

Berlin, Germany

Callie’s is a non-profit experimental institution in Berlin dedicated to fostering creativity and cultural exchange through its residency program, exhibitions, and public programs. Housed in a former machine factory in the Wedding district, Callie’s offers private studio spaces, a movement studio with a sprung floor, a cooperative sound studio, and a dedicated writing room. The residency is self-guided, allowing artists at any stage of their careers to explore new ideas without production requirements. Artists-in-residence can also request on-site accommodation in micro-apartments, designed with handmade and custom elements. Callie’s fosters an open and interdisciplinary environment, with periodic informal gatherings, networking opportunities, and access to Berlin’s rich cultural landscape. While the residency covers workspace and resources, it does not provide direct funding for travel or materials. The program is open to visual artists, musicians, choreographers, writers, poets, and researchers, supporting a wide range of creative practices. Residencies typically last six months, with some flexibility for shorter stays.

Correlación Contemporánea (Correlacion Contemporanea)

Iquitos (for Amazonica), Peru

Correlación Contemporánea is a non-profit, artist-run organization based in Peru, focused on analyzing and contributing to the contemporary art scene through a range of residency programs. Since 2016, they have fostered exchanges between national and international artists, creating horizontal spaces for dialogue that stimulate artistic creation within the Peruvian socio-cultural context. Their residency programs include Amazonica, COM_UNIDAD, IWATI PARANA, and ANACONDAAA, each offering unique experiences that connect artists with the rich cultural, social, and environmental landscape of Peru. These residencies are designed for multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary artists, curators, and researchers who wish to engage deeply with local communities, traditional practices, and contemporary issues in the Peruvian Amazon and Andean regions.

Delfina Foundation

London, United Kingdom

The Delfina Foundation Residency Program, based in London, offers opportunities for artists, curators, and writers to develop their practice, explore connections, and build collaborations. Residencies, lasting up to three months, are largely thematic and support both emerging and established cultural practitioners. The Foundation hosts 6 to 8 residents simultaneously in its central London location, providing flexible living and working space. Residents engage with international peers and the public, fostering artistic exchange and professional development. The program has a strong focus on critical issues in contemporary art and has established relationships with the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia.

Eutopia

Meteora, Greece

Eutopia Art Residency offers a unique opportunity for artists to immerse themselves in Greece's rich cultural and natural landscapes. Established in 2023, this residency has quickly become a hub for creative minds seeking inspiration, collaboration, and exploration. Eutopia Art Residency curates several thematic residencies across Greece, each designed to offer artists a different aspect of Greek life, from the tranquility of Meteora's monastic landscapes to the vibrant urban setting of Kavala. These residencies are open to artists from various disciplines, including visual arts, music, literature, and performance, providing a diverse and inclusive environment. With an emphasis on communal living and interaction with local communities, Eutopia Art Residency encourages artists to engage with Greece's cultural heritage, local artists, and Mediterranean cuisine. The program includes workshops, group exhibitions, and cultural excursions, enriching the residency experience. Artists are provided with accommodation, workspace, and logistical support to foster creativity and productivity. Despite its relative novelty, Eutopia Art Residency has successfully organized cultural events and residencies, facilitating a creative exchange that resonates with artists globally.

Hambidge

Rabun Gap, 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.

Hub Feenix

Meltola, Finland

Hub Feenix, nestled in the tranquil southeastern Finland forest, offers a unique artist residency program that fosters creativity, healing, and connection. Located in a beautifully renovated former sanatorium, the Hub provides an inspiring environment for artists, writers, and other creatives to focus on their work while enjoying the serene beauty of nature. The residency program supports creative exploration and personal growth, offering both quiet, private spaces and opportunities for communal engagement. With a strong commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, Hub Feenix is an ideal retreat for those seeking inspiration and rejuvenation in a supportive, nature-immersed setting.

James Castle House

Boise, 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.

Kaaysá Art Residency (Kaaysa)

Boiçucanga, Brazil

Kaaysá Art Residency is an artist-run organization located in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, designed for artists, writers, and creators seeking to engage deeply with nature, local communities, and interdisciplinary practices. Founded and managed by women, the residency emphasizes decolonizing perspectives, reclaiming the wild body, and fostering non-hierarchical relationships. Kaaysá offers various programs, including themed residencies, open calls, and group initiatives, allowing for diverse creative formats and durations. The residency provides ample facilities, including private and shared studios, workshops, and recreational amenities, supporting up to 30 artists at a time. Participants can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture, biodiversity, and collaborative environment. Kaaysá aims to integrate the local coastal region into the broader cultural circuit, leveraging its proximity to São Paulo for access to urban resources while promoting creative and ecological sustainability.

Lighthouse Works

Fishers Island, 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, 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.

Montello Foundation

Montello, 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.