Artist Residencies in Joshua Tree, California

High Desert Test Sites (HDTS)

Joshua Tree, California, United States

High Desert Test Sites (HDTS) offers two unique residency programs at A-Z West, an 80-acre compound in Joshua Tree, California, created by artist Andrea Zittel. The Work-Trade Residency invites artists to stay for 2–4 weeks in exchange for 10 hours of weekly work around the property. This includes grounds maintenance, ceramics studio work, and general upkeep. In return, artists receive housing in micro-apartments and access to studio spaces. The Self-Structured Residency allows participants to stay for 1–4 weeks, paying a fee for private accommodations in the A-Z West Guest Cabin or House, with access to weaving and ceramics studios upon request. Both residencies focus on providing a tranquil and immersive experience in the desert, fostering creative work, personal reflection, and community engagement. Transportation is essential as the residency is located in a remote desert area without access to public transit. Applications for the Work-Trade Residency are accepted twice a year, while Self-Structured Residencies are available on a rolling basis.

Joshua Tree Highlands Artist Residency (JTHAR)

Joshua Tree, California, United States

Founded in 2007, Joshua Tree Highlands Artist Residency (JTHAR) is a non-profit organization that offers a unique residency experience for artists from around the globe. Located near the stunning Joshua Tree National Park, JTHAR provides artists with scholarship funds, living accommodations, studio space, and opportunities for open studio events. The residency is designed to foster creativity, trust, courage, diversity, and acceptance, promoting opportunities for exploration, experimentation, and engagement with the vibrant local community. Each year, JTHAR invites six artists at various career stages and working in diverse media to create work amidst the natural beauty of the park. The selection process involves a review of applications by the JTHAR Board Members, based on the artist's portfolio and residency proposal. In addition to the standard scholarship, the Gothard Family Artist Scholarship offers a stipend to a residency recipient of African American heritage, specifically for visual artists. The residency provides individual houses for living and working, with the option to use a dedicated large studio space. Artists are expected to provide their own transportation, attend a mid-residency review, and have the option of an open studio exhibition or a Zoom presentation at the end of the residency. JTHAR encourages artists to immerse themselves in the inspiring environment of Joshua Tree, contributing to the cultural landscape and fostering connections within the artistic community.