Studio Access Residency FAQs

When do applications open?

We offer this six-month residency twice each year. The Spring + Summer session applications typically open the beginning of every January, and the Fall + Winter session applications typically open the beginning of every July. The exact dates of the application window are subject to change each year, so keep an eye on our website for the most accurate information. You can also follow us on social media for updates when applications open.

What are the durations of each residency session?

The Spring + Summer session runs from May 1 – October 31 and the Fall + Winter session runs from November 1 – April 30 every year.

Is there a difference between each session?

Each session is identical in benefits. However, it is important to note some small differences in the schedule. Our Fall + Winter session provides the most open studio time, but we do have several holiday closures that can take away from that: VisArts closes for Thanksgiving, the day after Thanksgiving, and December 24 through January 2 of every year, and there is no studio access during that time. Our Spring + Summer session has more restrictions of studio availability due to our ArtVenture summer camp, however this session is great for artists that have more evening availability to use the studios, as well as teachers that get the summers off.

What materials are required to apply?

We use Slideroom to intake applications, which does require signing up for a free account. On the application, we ask for general personal information, a resume or artist CV, 3 – 4 images of your most recent work, and we ask a series of questions. These questions ask about what you’d like to accomplish while in residency, how would you plan to use the studios at VisArts, and how would this opportunity impact your personal or professional goals. Additionally, we ask about your need for this residency, whether it’s financial, space, or career-driven. For applicants that are applying from out of town, we ask that you expand on how you plan to attend this residency if distance is a factor.

Are applications open to international residents?

Yes, however we cannot provide any sponsored visas to international applicants and can only provide acknowledgement of the residency opportunity if it is in support of a visa application that the applicant may be applying for. We do not specifically inquire about applicants’ US residency or citizenship status for this program. We recognize that current political dynamics and constantly evolving immigration policies may affect the ability of some applicants to travel internationally or obtain visas. While we are committed to supporting artists from all backgrounds, we transparently acknowledge that current visa restrictions and geopolitical circumstances may present barriers for some applicants, and we must acknowledge the risk in taking on residency opportunities in the US. We will work with selected artists to provide documentation/acknowledgement of visa application support for this opportunity. Please note that this specific residency does not include a stipend, housing or a private studio.

What type of artists are considered for this opportunity? Should I apply?

Anyone who believes they would benefit from the opportunities and resources offered through this residency should apply. This program is open to artists and writers working in all media. We select 15 artists for every session and this group usually ranges from recent undergraduates, non-traditionally trained artists, educators, as well as more established artists with several exhibitions under their belt. We strive to cultivate a community of artists with a broad range of academic backgrounds, ages, and creative interests. If you are dedicated to art-making, and looking to further develop your practice with a cohort of other artists, then this residency could be for you!

What are the benefits of this residency?

One of the major benefits of this residency is free studio access in our communal studio spaces, which otherwise would cost money to rent studio time. Other benefits include free demos to learn new processes such as letterpress and screenprinting, workshop intensives in the woodshop, skill-shares by fellow residents and a tuition-free VisArts class credit. This residency also offers a group exhibition opportunity towards the end of the session and the chance to connect with a group of fellow artists through engaging events and camaraderie throughout the session.

What is expected of residents while in residency?
Residents aren’t required to produce anything while they’re here. If you need to spend the 6 months exploring new medias and experimenting with processes, we love that. If you want to attempt your biggest painting yet, also great. We do encourage residents to take advantage of the free demos and skillshares as much as they can in order to learn something new and engage with their fellow cohort. VisArts asks that each resident must attend an orientation session at the start of the residency, as well as a small meet + greet with staff. VisArts also provides a group exhibition opportunity towards the end of each session, but not every resident is required to participate.

Are writers eligible for this residency?

Yes, we welcome writers to apply for this program. Since this residency is still primarily designed with visual artists in mind, writers should consider and express how access to the studios and other benefits provided with this residency will be useful to their creative practice.

When will I be notified about the status of my application?

We will notify all applicants by September 15 for the Fall + Winter sessions and by March 15 for the Spring + Summer sessions.

I’ve been a resident before — can I reapply?

No, past Studio Access Residents can not apply again for the same program. However, we encourage past Studio Access Residents to apply for our Annual Residency program, or apply to become a teacher or studio monitor.

How does the jurying process work?

We give our jurors a month to review applications on their own once the deadline closes. Our panel of jurors are a mix of VisArts staff, former artists-in-residence, exhibiting artists, and other local artists/curators/writers/etc. This panel of jurors then come together to discuss the applications and decide on 15 recipients.

I have questions about certain studio equipment and what is provided. Who can I reach out to?
Please reach out to our Facilities team with questions about our studios such as Woodshop, Metals, and Glass studios at [email protected].