How I Landed My First Artist Residency (and What I Learned from the Experience)

My Journey to Becoming an Artist in Residence

Landing my first artist residency was a milestone I’ll never forget. It wasn’t a traditional residency in the sense of living on-site, while housing wasn’t provided, it was still an extraordinary opportunity. I spent one month creating in a beautiful old barn inside a state park, surrounded by open space, light, and the peace that working alongside nature brings that every artist dreams of.

Although my residency took place in October, the journey to get there started back in January. I had learned about the program from colleagues a few years earlier but didn’t feel “ready” to apply until this year. Like many artists, I thought the application had to include a profound or deeply conceptual proposal. In actuality this process was much simpler than I expected.

All I needed was to create a project that resonated with me and reflected my artistic vision.

How I Applied for My Artist Residency

When I finally decided to apply, I submitted my artist statement, project proposal, and résumé. My proposal outlined the work I wanted to complete during the residency and a community project I hoped to lead alongside it.

A few weeks after submitting, I was invited to interview with the program leaders. During that conversation, I explained my ideas, my process, and what I wanted to contribute to the space and surrounding community.  A few weeks after that I received the great news, I was accepted into the program.  I would be doing a one month Artist in Residence.

What It Was Like During the Residency

Two weeks before my start date, I met with the organizers again to go over the logistics like where to set up, how to access the workspace, and the general schedule. Everything started to feel real at that point.

As a small business owner, I’m used to juggling multiple roles from client work, editing, emails, to admin tasks leaving little time for personal creative work. Having an entire month dedicated solely to creating art was something I’d never experienced before. It was glorious.

Each day in the barn became a routine of reflection, experimentation, and growth. I learned to slow down and listen to my ideas rather than rushing to the next task. My project evolved midway through, and that shift became one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.

What I Learned from My First Artist Residency

Looking back, here are my biggest takeaways and tips for anyone applying for their first artist residency:

1. Know your expenses ahead of time

Find out if the program provides a stipend or if you’ll need to cover materials, transportation, and other costs yourself. Budgeting in advance helps you focus on the work instead of the logistics.

2. Be open to change

Your art will likely evolve during your residency and that’s a good thing. Allow your project to shift and grow as you do.

3. Don’t wait to feel “ready”

If you’re waiting for the perfect moment to apply, stop. You’ll never feel 100% ready, and that’s okay. The best way to grow is to take the leap and apply anyway.