Artist residencies, reviewed by artists who've been there

Vermont Studio Center (VSC)

Johnson, United States

The Vermont Studio Center (VSC) stands as a vibrant creative sanctuary, offering residencies for artists and writers in the tranquil environment of Johnson, Vermont. Offering private studios and accommodation, VSC is dedicated to providing an immersive creative experience, enhanced by the presence of visiting artists and writers who contribute through talks, presentations, and one-on-one sessions. VSC prides itself on its commitment to inclusivity, with various fellowships targeted at supporting BIPOC artists, women, Native Americans, and writers of color, highlighting its dedication to fostering diversity within its community. The center also encourages community engagement through a Community Contribution Program, allowing residents to actively participate in the local and on-campus community. VSC’s facilities are tailored for a wide range of creative practices, including a print shop, digital lab, sculpture shop, and access to traditional craft media, emphasizing its role as a comprehensive hub for artistic development.

Cafe Tissardmine

Tissardmine, Morocco

Cafe Tissardmine offers a unique artist residency in the heart of the Moroccan desert, providing a serene environment for artists to explore and create. This residency is designed for artists seeking inspiration from the vast landscapes and profound silence of the desert. Up to nine artists at a time can enjoy a 24-day stay, with the opportunity to engage with the local village and its children. The residency emphasizes the importance of being resourceful and inventive due to its isolated location, limited internet access, and the need for artists to bring their own supplies. The program includes accommodation, meals, studio space, and a sunset trip to Erg Chebbi's giant dune, aiming to recharge and inspire artists away from the demands of modern life. The selection process is personal and prioritizes artists committed to the full residency length, with a fee of 950 Euro covering most necessities and activities designed to immerse artists in the desert experience.

Mauser EcoHouse

Near San Jose, Costa Rica

The Mauser EcoHouse Artist Residency, established by the Mauser Harmony with Nature Foundation in 2019, is located in the remote tropical mountains of Costa Rica. The residency offers private and shared studios, set in a Spanish-style villa that promotes an eco-friendly and health-conscious lifestyle. Artists from all disciplines and backgrounds are invited to explore and create amidst one of the most biodiverse environments on the planet. The residency emphasizes sustainable living, with a focus on permaculture and the use of natural materials found on-site. Accommodations include options for private or shared rooms, with vegetarian meals provided to foster communal engagement. Artists have access to a large communal studio and an outdoor veranda for plein air activities, ensuring a variety of working environments. The program supports deep reflection and intensive creative work, free from the distractions of daily life, making it an ideal retreat for artists committed to environmental conservation and creative exploration. The residency operates year-round and welcomes applications from international artists, offering a unique opportunity to experience 'Pura Vida' – the pure life of Costa Rica.

ArteSumapaz

San Bernardo, Colombia

ArteSumapaz, located in San Bernardo, Cundinamarca, Colombia, serves as a multifaceted arts center set on a historical coffee plantation that has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and ecological hub. The center focuses on a variety of artistic disciplines including visual arts, sculpture, printmaking, dance, theatre, and music among others. It offers a range of residencies lasting from four to twenty-four weeks and is open to international, national, and emerging artists. ArteSumapaz emphasizes community involvement and environmental sustainability, featuring organic agriculture and reforestation initiatives. The facility includes several studios, a performance space, a bookbindery, and accommodation for artists and volunteers. Artists are encouraged to engage with the local community through workshops and open critiques, contributing to a dynamic exchange of ideas and cultural enrichment.

Biophilium is a Canadian, artist-run residency program focused on helping artists study the natural world, wildlife, bioart, and death-related themes. Its current format centers on two-week online seminars with lectures by researchers, artist talks, studio visits, field trips, and workshops; the program is described as a research-oriented residency rather than a production residency.

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.