About Residencies

I come away from an encounter with the Alliance of Artists Communities with an enhanced appreciation for my colleagues. I have learned something; I have been challenged in my views; I have gained resolve to hone the efforts that further our mission; I have shared ideas with others. I have been reminded that my organization is not alone in its efforts to offer blessed sanctuary to the cultural flamekeepers among us. I carry a greater resolve that what we do matters. For this, the Alliance is essential.

— Suny Monk, Virginia Center for the Creative Arts

Looking for a residency? Try our Residency Search.

Artists’ residencies (also called communities, colonies, retreats, workspaces, and studio collectives) provide dedicated time and space for creative work. Beyond this core value, these creative communities are a diverse group, and provide artists with many different styles and models of support.

Residencies can be found in urban or rural areas, serving one artist at a time or 50. Some support one artistic genre while many are interdisciplinary, welcoming visual artists, writers, composers, choreographers, scholars and other creative individuals. There are programs that are active centers for public programs and others that offer solitude and retreat. Many provide room and board as a home-away-from-home; others offer not a place to live, but a community for local artists in which to work and be supported in the creation of new art.

Whether you are seeking your first residency or are a seasoned alumni of artists’ communities, there are a few things you may want to consider:

About Residencies

Site Info