Fully Funded vs. Self-Funded Residencies: Pros and Cons

Many people assume that free residencies are better than self-funded ones, but the reality is more nuanced. While free residencies are appealing, their benefits may not always be clear-cut. If chosen wisely (see How to Evaluate an Art Residency), both free and self-funded options can provide valuable experiences.

Why Choose a Fully Funded Art Residency?

No Monetary Cost to the Artist
These residencies are typically supported by donors, governments, or institutions, providing opportunities without direct financial costs to the artist.
Increased Diversity
By removing financial barriers, these residencies attract a broader applicant pool, allowing for more diversity in nationalities, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This creates a richer and more dynamic environment for creative exchange.

Downsides:

Time-Intensive Applications
Fully funded residencies often attract a high volume of applicants due to their affordability, resulting in low acceptance rates. Artists may need to submit numerous applications, which can take time away from their job or creative practice. (See also: Paying Application Fees)
No Cost Isn’t Always Free
Artists might be required to contribute in other ways, such as organizing workshops, assisting with tasks like cooking or cleaning, or donating artwork to the residency.
Responsibility to Funders
Fully funded art residencies often prioritize the interests of their funding sources over the needs of artists.

Who Should Apply?

Full-time artists without alternative sources of income, who have strong CVs and portfolios. Artists who are more focused on generating cultural exchange rather than practice development.

Also, keep in mind that fully funded programs and scholarships are limited, and you might be taking the place of an artist who could truly benefit from the opportunity. Don’t treat a fully funded program as a paid holiday; choose it because it will significantly impact your practice and career.

Why Choose a Self-Funded Residency?

Simpler Application Process
Applications for self-funded residencies are typically less time-consuming than those for fully funded programs.
Focused Artist Support
With funding provided by participating artists, residency administration aligns its priorities with the needs of the artists rather than external funding sources.
Opportunities for Emerging Artists
While acceptance rates for free residencies can be as low as 2%, self-funded programs provide accessible opportunities for artists to gain valuable experience and develop their practice.

Downsides:

Economic costs
Artists must cover fees, which, combined with materials and travel expenses, can add up quickly.
Potential Disappointment
Some art residencies offer only basic amenities, such as a room and studio. This can lead to dissatisfaction among self-funded residents, who might feel that renting an Airbnb would provide comparable value for the cost. (See also: How to Evaluate an Art Residency)

Who Should Apply?

Artists with additional income sources who seek a supportive environment to develop their practice.

A Third Option: Self-Funded Residencies with External Funding

For this option, artists can apply for a self-funded residency and simultaneously seek funding from a local arts organization.

Why Consider This Option?

Reasonable acceptance rates for both residencies and funding programs help reduce the time spent on applications. This option combines the best of both worlds: a simple application process without the financial burden.
Awarded grants can be listed on your CV

Downside:

Artists must fill two separate appication processes. It is recommended to apply to the residency first and once accepted apply for funding using the acceptance letter that the residency must provide.

When applying to a self-funded art residency, you can ask the organization about funding opportunities. Alternatively, you can explore funding sources such as those listed here.

Who Should Use This Option?

Artists from developed countries with robust funding programs.

Which Residency Looks Better on a CV?

If you’re accepted into a prestigious fully funded art residency, you likely already have a strong CV and portfolio, so it may not add significant value. The visual art world, as the name suggests, is highly visual; no number of lines on a CV can match the impact of a strong body of work and a well-presented portfolio. Instead of focusing on residencies as CV boosters, prioritize those that will support your practice and help you create stronger work.