The World's Best Art Residencies 2025:
15 Visual Art Programs for Creative Growth
Choosing the right Artist-in-Residence Program depends on each artist’s goals, style, and stage in their career. These 15 Artists' Residencies are internationally recognized for their strong support and valuable opportunities for artistic growth.
From Skowhegan’s structured, critique-focused environment to Villa Medici’s culturally rich setting, each program offers unique benefits.This guide will help you find the art residency that best matches your objectives, bringing you closer to your next creative journey.
Table of Contents
1. Rijksakademie (NL)
2. Skowhegan (USA)
3. Akademie Schloss Solitude (GER)
4. Banff Centre (CA)
5. Casa Lü (MX)
6. Villa Medici (IT)
7. Fondation Fiminco (FR)
8. Jan van Eyck Academie (NL)
9. Black Rock (SN)
10. MMCA Residencies (KR)
11. MacDowell Colony (USA)
12. OxBow (USA)
13. Bundanon (AU)
14. Yaddo (USA)
15. Vermont Studio Center (USA)
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#1 Rijksakademie
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Duration: 1–2 years
Disciplines: Visual arts, interdisciplinary practices
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 2.3%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium
Application Deadline: September
Application Fee: $50
Why Rijksakademie is Among the Best
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Historical Prestige: Over 150 years of artistic innovation, widely regarded as one of the best artist residencies.
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Extensive Resources: Well-equipped workshops, specialist technical staff, and an extensive library.
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Global Community: Brings together international artists, offering a diverse, idea-rich environment.
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Financial Support: Resident artists receive a studio, stipend, and project budget.
Who It’s For
Mid-career contemporary artists seeking a rigorous, long-term artist residency program with unparalleled resources and global exposure.
What Residents Say
Rijksakademie was a pivotal moment in my artistic journey. The freedom to experiment, coupled with access to world-class facilities and technical expertise, allowed me to push my practice in entirely new directions. The conversations with advisors and fellow residents challenged my perspectives and expanded my conceptual framework.What sets Rijksakademie apart is its emphasis on peer-to-peer learning. Late-night discussions in the communal kitchen often led to unexpected collaborations and breakthroughs. The stipend provided financial stability, allowing me to focus entirely on my work without external pressures.Perhaps most importantly, the Rijksakademie connected me to a global network of artists, curators, and institutions that continue to shape my career years after the residency. It's not just a two-year program; it's an ongoing dialogue with the international art world."
- Taus Makhacheva, Visual Artist (2017-2018 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply early to secure the lower €60 application fee (often waived for artists from DAC-listed countries). Focus your portfolio on recent creative work that demonstrates artistic evolution rather than a specific project proposal. The Rijksakademie values artists who can contribute to their diverse, international community, so highlight any cross-cultural or collaborative experiences. Be prepared for a multi-stage selection process, including possible interviews and studio visits. Remember, you can only apply three times in your lifetime, so time your applications strategically in your career.
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#2 Skowhegan School of Painting & Sculpture
Location: Skowhegan, Maine, United States
Duration: Nine-week summer program
Disciplines: Painting, sculpture, performance, installation, new media, and more
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 3%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium
Application Deadline: October
Application Fee: $20-$80
Why Skowhegan is Among the Best
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Legacy of Excellence: Nearly 80 years of shaping eminent artists such as Jacob Lawrence and Alex Katz.
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Intensive Process: Emphasizes experimentation over polished outcomes; daily critiques, studio visits, and mentorship fuel artistic development.
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Strong Community: The 350-acre rural campus hosts about 65 visual artists, with communal meals and late-night visits forging lasting collaborations.
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Accessibility: Need-blind admissions often include scholarships covering the $6,000 tuition.
Who It’s For
Artists seeking a transformative, critique-driven summer experience in an inclusive and supportive environment.
What Residents Say
“Skowhegan transformed my understanding of what it means to be an artist. As an undergraduate student, I suddenly found myself working alongside established artists and faculty who treated me as a peer. The faculty pushed me to abandon traditional tools—they sent me to Home Depot for mops and squeegees to experiment with mark-making on the floor. This freedom to play, combined with 24/7 studio access on a 350-acre campus, completely reshaped my practice.
What surprised me most was the community. I met artists from around the world, all at different career stages, and those late-night studio visits sparked collaborations I never imagined. Skowhegan didn’t just validate me as an artist—it made me realize my work could exist beyond the classroom. Now, back in Vancouver, I’ve redesigned my studio to prioritize process over perfection, thanks to what I learned there.”
- Sandra Smolski (2023 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply early to secure the lowest application fee tier ($20) and prioritize your portfolio’s cohesion over project proposals. Skowhegan’s selection process focuses on existing work rather than planned projects. Engage actively in communal meals and critiques, these unstructured interactions often spark breakthroughs and forge lifelong connections.
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#3 Akademie Schloss Solitude
Location: Stuttgart, Germany
Duration: 6–12 months
Disciplines: Visual arts, performing arts, design, literature, music/sound, digital art, sciences
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 1.5%
Language: English
Financial Support: High
Application Deadline: December
Application Fee: $15
Why Akademie Schloss Solitude is Among the Best
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Interdisciplinary Focus: Encourages cross-pollination among selected artists, scientists, and scholars.
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Scenic Setting: Housed in a historic castle that blends heritage with contemporary art.
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Generous Support: Fellows receive a monthly stipend, free accommodation, travel expenses, and access to various facilities.
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Public Engagement: Hosts exhibitions, performances, and publications showcasing resident work.
Who It’s For
Artists and researchers interested in interdisciplinary collaboration in a serene yet community-oriented environment.
What Residents Say
“Akademie Schloss Solitude offered an unparalleled space for interdisciplinary growth. The freedom to experiment without outcome pressure allowed me to rethink my practice entirely. I arrived with plans for large installations but ended up collaborating with local artisans and musicians, inspired by Stuttgart’s creative energy. The residency’s blend of solitude and community—paired with access to workshops and global mentors—pushed my work into realms I never anticipated. The monthly stipend and studio space let me focus deeply, while late-night conversations in the castle corridors sparked collaborations that still influence my projects today.”
- Barbara Gryka (2022 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply early for Akademie Schloss Solitude’s biennial residencies (next deadline likely September 2025) and emphasize transdisciplinary collaboration in your proposal—jurors prioritize artists bridging fields like tech, science, and traditional arts. If working digitally, reference their Digital Solitude track. Note family needs upfront, as some studios accommodate dependents, and align your budget narrative with their €1,200 monthly stipend to show how funds will directly support material costs or local research.
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#4 Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity
Location: Banff, Canada
Duration: 2–8 weeks
Disciplines: Visual arts, dance, music, opera, writing, interdisciplinary exploration, media arts
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 10%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium
Application Deadline: February
Application Fee: $65
Why Banff Centre is Among the Best
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Alpine Inspiration: Set in the Canadian Rockies, offering breathtaking surroundings that spark creative renewal.
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Cutting-Edge Facilities: From digital labs to advanced production studios for large-scale and tech-driven projects.
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Global Diversity: Contemporary artists worldwide convene here, fostering cross-cultural collaborations.
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Flexible Programs: Self-directed options for autonomy or themed residencies with structured lectures and critiques.
Who It’s For
Creators seeking top-tier resources, international networks, and an inspiring natural backdrop that balances solitude with community.
What Residents Say
“Banff Centre is the visual arts Juilliard of Canada. The Leighton Artists Studios, surrounded by the Sacred Buffalo Guardian Mountain, provided an unparalleled environment to create. The residency’s blend of solitude and community—paired with access to world-class facilities—allowed me to produce my most ambitious work yet. From the gourmet meals to the curated gallery visits, every detail fosters inspiration. I left with not just new art, but lifelong connections to Canada’s artistic pulse.”
- Brandy Saturley (2022 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply for thematic residencies if you thrive on collaboration, as these programs offer structured group critiques and faculty-led discussions that push artistic boundaries. For self-directed artists, the Banff Artist in Residence (BAiR) program provides 24/7 studio access and technical support, perfect for large-scale or experimental projects. Arrive early to explore Banff National Park’s trails and lakes; many alumni credit the landscape’s grandeur as a catalyst for breakthroughs. Check for Indigenous-focused funding.
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#5 Casa Lü (Parque & Sur)
Location: Mexico City, Mexico
Duration: 4–6 weeks
Disciplines: Visual arts, photography, sculpture, painting, installation, writing
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 25%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium-Low
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Application Fee: Free
Why Casa Lü is Among the Best
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Global Cultural Hub: Weekly outings connect resident artists to Mexico City’s vibrant art scene, rich in feminist and queer perspectives.
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Balanced Framework: Private studios, critiques, and workshops balance independent work with collaborative engagement.
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Expansive Alumni Network: Over 450 international artists foster cross-border connections and ongoing professional opportunities.
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Exhibition as Process: Public group exhibitions are integral to the residency, emphasizing curation and presentation as essential aspects of artistic practice.
Who It’s For
Artists seeking a cosmopolitan setting, structured cultural experiences, and a culminating public exhibition.
What Residents Say
“My experience at Casa Lü went far beyond my expectations. I've taken part in a number of international artist residencies and none of them can compare to this. First, the living quarters are beautiful, as are the studio spaces. Care is taken to ensure that artists are engaged in the local community through field trips and studio visits. There are opportunities to give artist talks, build your confidence when speaking about your practice, and exhibit at the end of your stay. All the while living and sharing meals with artists from all over the world and exploring a vibrant and beautiful city. I can't overstate the great work Casa Lü is doing for the arts community by offering this amazing residency. I loved it.”
- Aremy Stewart (2023 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply 12 months in advance to secure preferred dates and allow time for funding applications. Casa Lü recommends arriving in Mexico City a week early to explore cultural sites before the residency’s packed schedule begins. This ensures you’re fully focused on your work once the program starts.
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#6 Villa Medici (French Academy in Rome)
Location: Rome, Italy
Duration: 1 year
Disciplines: Visual arts, music, literature, film, art history, fine arts
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 4%
Language: French
Financial Support: High
Application Deadline: October
Application Fee: $50
Why Villa Medici is Among the Best
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Historic Significance: One of the oldest French institutions abroad, uniting Renaissance heritage with contemporary art.
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Inspiring Locale: Nestled on Rome’s Pincian Hill, overlooking the city’s historical and cultural landmarks.
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Comprehensive Support: Includes a stipend, accommodations, travel costs, and dedicated workspace.
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Cultural Exchange: Fosters dialogue between French, Italian, and global artistic communities.
Who It’s For
Artists and scholars seeking immersion in Rome’s cultural tapestry while refining their practice in a storied setting.
What Residents Say
“My time at Villa Medici was transformative. The blend of Renaissance architecture and contemporary art created an inspiring backdrop for my work. The monthly stipend of €1,500 allowed me to focus entirely on my project, while the communal living fostered unexpected collaborations with artists from diverse disciplines. The weekly outings to galleries and cultural landmarks in Rome deepened my understanding of art history and its influence on my practice. The experience of presenting my work in the final exhibition, with its potential for public and critical engagement, was invaluable. Villa Medici isn't just a residency; it's a portal to artistic growth and cultural immersion in the heart of Rome.”
- Anonymous (2023 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply for the "Medici Residences" program if you're seeking a shorter, project-focused stay. These residencies, lasting 2 weeks to 2 months, are separate from the annual competition and offer more flexibility. For the best chance of acceptance, submit a well-defined research or creative project that aligns with Villa Medici's mission of fostering cultural dialogue between France and Italy. Remember, French language proficiency is required.
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#7 Fondation Fiminco
Location: Paris, France
Duration: 11 months
Disciplines: Visual arts (all disciplines)
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 5%
Language: French
Financial Support: High
Application Deadline: April
Application Fee: Free
Why Fondation Fiminco is Among the Best
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State-of-the-Art Facilities: Collective studios and well-equipped workshops support various practices.
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Urban Context: Situated in the Paris metropolitan area, offering direct engagement with a vibrant art scene.
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Professional Development: Provides assistance with networking, communications, and administrative skills.
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Exhibition Opportunities: Concludes with public presentations, elevating emerging artists’ visibility.
Who It’s For
Visual artists seeking an extended residency in a major European capital, with top-notch facilities and professional guidance.
What Residents Say
“My time at Fondation Fiminco was transformative. The blend of private studio space and communal workshops fostered both solitude and collaboration. The production grant allowed me to experiment with new mediums I couldn't have explored otherwise. The weekly meetings with art world professionals opened doors I never imagined. But what truly set this residency apart was the vibrant community—living and working alongside artists from around the globe in this converted industrial space on the outskirts of Paris sparked conversations and collaborations that continue to influence my practice today.”
- Anonymous (2022 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply early and focus on how your project aligns with Fondation Fiminco's mission of fostering cultural dialogue. Emphasize your interest in engaging with the local art scene and collaborating with other resident artists. The foundation values artists who can contribute to their public programming, so highlight any experience in workshops or community engagement. Also, consider applying for the shorter "Medici Residences" program if you prefer a more focused, project-based stay.
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#8 Jan van Eyck Academie
Location: Maastricht, Netherlands
Duration: 11 months
Disciplines: Fine arts, design, art theory, curating
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 8%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium-Low
Application Deadline: January
Application Fee: $78
Why Jan van Eyck Academie is Among the Best
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Multidisciplinary Approach: Welcomes artists, designers, theorists, and curators for a rich, interdisciplinary atmosphere.
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Excellent Facilities: Offers advanced labs (printing, publishing, photography, audiovisual, food labs, and more).
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Research-Driven: Emphasizes rigorous artistic inquiry, supported by expert advisors and guest lecturers.
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European Context: Situated in Maastricht, with easy access to major art hubs across Europe.
Who It’s For
Artists and researchers seeking a year-long, research-intensive environment that bridges theory and practice.
What Residents Say
“My time at the Jan van Eyck Academie was transformative. The blend of private studio space and access to cutting-edge labs – from Photography & Audiovisual to Future Materials – allowed me to push the boundaries of my practice. The interdisciplinary environment, with artists, designers, and researchers from diverse backgrounds, sparked collaborations I never imagined. The monthly stipend and working budget gave me the freedom to fully immerse myself in my work. What truly sets this residency apart is its commitment to addressing pressing global issues through art. The discussions and projects around climate change and environmental breakdown challenged me to reconsider my role as an artist in society. It's not just a residency; it's a catalyst for artistic and personal growth.”
- Anonymous (2023 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply early and emphasize your interest in interdisciplinary collaboration. The Jan van Eyck Academie values artists who can contribute to their public programming, so highlight any experience in workshops or community engagement. Focus on how your project aligns with the academy's commitment to exploring art's role in addressing climate change and environmental issues. Consider applying as a duo or collective, as the academy offers specific stipends and accommodations for such arrangements
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#9 Black Rock
Location: Dakar, Senegal
Duration: 1–3 months
Disciplines: Visual arts, film, photography, sculpture, textiles, sound/performance, writing
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 1.5%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium-High
Application Deadline: January
Application Fee: Free
Why Black Rock is Among the Best
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Founder’s Legacy: Founded by Kehinde Wiley, a globally renowned artist known for his presidential portrait of Barack Obama.
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Luxurious Facilities: Private studios, three-story apartments, gym, sauna, swimming pool, and chef-prepared meals.
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Cultural Immersion: Weekly gallery visits, collaborations with Senegalese artisans, and language tutoring (English/French/Wolof).
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Global Network: Alumni include artists exhibited at MoMA, Tate Modern, and Venice Biennale.
Who It’s For
Contemporary artists seeking a blend of luxury and cultural engagement in West Africa. Ideal for those wanting to expand their practice through interdisciplinary exchange and access to Dakar’s vibrant art scene.
What Residents Say
“Black Rock Senegal provided an unparalleled environment to push my creative boundaries. The residency’s blend of solitude and cultural immersion—paired with access to local artisans—allowed me to experiment with new techniques I never would’ve explored in the U.S. The chef-prepared meals and studio space overlooking the Atlantic Ocean created a sanctuary for focus. But what truly transformed my practice was collaborating with Senegalese weavers. This residency isn’t just about making art—it’s about redefining your relationship with Africa’s creative legacy.”
- Paul Verdell (2022 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply 6–12 months in advance and emphasize cultural curiosity in your proposal. Highlight how your creative work could benefit from Dakar’s artistic ecosystem (e.g., textile traditions, film collectives). Prepare to document your process—the final group exhibition is a key networking opportunity. While French/Wolof skills aren’t required, demonstrating interest in local languages boosts your application.
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#10 MMCA Residencies (Changdong & Goyang)
Location: Near Seoul, South Korea
Duration: 3–6 months
Disciplines: Visual arts
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 12%
Language: English
Financial Support: High
Application Deadline: September
Application Fee: Free
Why MMCA Residency is Among the Best
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Cultural Exchange: Facilitates meaningful dialogue between Korean and international artists.
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Comprehensive Support: Includes a private studio, accommodation, travel expenses, and a monthly stipend.
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Exhibition Opportunities: Features open studios and group exhibitions for resident artists.
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Professional Growth: Organized programs, workshops, and networking events enrich creative development.
Who It’s For
Visual artists eager to engage with Korea’s contemporary art scene while benefiting from a globally minded framework.
What Residents Say
“My experience at the MMCA Residency in Changdong was truly transformative. The program's structure, blending private studio time with organized cultural activities, provided the perfect balance for artistic growth. The monthly stipend and comfortable accommodation allowed me to fully immerse myself in my practice without financial stress. What stood out most was the opportunity to engage deeply with Korean contemporary art. The organized visits to galleries, museums, and artist studios in Seoul opened my eyes to new perspectives and techniques. The culminating exhibition at the MMCA gave me invaluable exposure to curators and collectors. This residency not only advanced my artistic practice but also expanded my global network in ways I couldn't have imagined."
- Anonymous (2022 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply strategically for the MMCA Residencies by tailoring your proposal to align with their focus on cultural exchange and contemporary Korean art. The program offers two distinct locations: Changdong for emerging artists and Goyang for mid-career professionals. If you're early in your career, emphasize your potential for growth in the Changdong application. For Goyang, highlight your established practice and how the international residency program will facilitate a significant project or research. Regardless of which you choose, demonstrate a genuine interest in engaging with Korean culture and artists, as this is a key aspect of the program.
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#11 MacDowell Colony
Location: Peterborough, New Hampshire, United States
Duration: 2 to 6 weeks
Disciplines: Visual arts, writing, music composition, film, theater, architecture
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 11%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium-High
Application Deadline: February and September
Application Fee: $30
Why MacDowell Colony is Among the Best
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Historic Legacy: The nation’s first artist residency, with a century-long record of nurturing creativity.
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Serene Environment: A 450-acre wooded campus provides a tranquil setting for focused work.
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Interdisciplinary Community: Unites creators across genres, often spurring unexpected collaborations.
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Prestigious Fellowship: MacDowell Fellowships are highly regarded, often boosting career visibility.
Who It’s For
Emerging and established artists seeking an immersive, distraction-free period of focused creative exploration.
What Residents Say
“MacDowell’s motto 'Freedom to create' became my reality. In my private woodland studio, I wrote daily with no distractions—lunch delivered in a picnic basket, evenings spent discussing art with peers across disciplines. The structured solitude let me eat, sleep, and breathe my poetry collection. Three weeks here yielded more progress than months in my regular routine, proving how vital uninterrupted time is for artistic work."
- Katie Hale (2019 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply early and prioritize a specific project needing focused time. Highlight interdisciplinary collaboration potential (e.g., musicians working with writers). Request fee waivers if eligible and note financial need—jurors favor artists requiring uninterrupted solitude.
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#12 OxBow
Location: Saugatuck, Michigan, United States
Duration: 3 weeks
Disciplines: Painting, printmaking, ceramics, writing, performance, and more
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 20%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium-Low
Application Deadline: March and June
Application Fee: Free
Why OxBow is Among the Best
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Nature Meets Collaboration: A serene lakeside campus near dunes and woodlands complements intensive studio work.
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Seasonal Versatility: Fully funded summer residencies and specialized fall workshops accommodate varying schedules.
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Interdisciplinary Focus: Communal dining, group critiques, and workshops unite creators across diverse fields.
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Hands-On Learning: Skill-sharing, demos, and collaborative projects enhance both technical and conceptual abilities.
Who It’s For
Artists desiring a nature-focused retreat that balances independent studio time with interactive group sessions.
What Residents Say
“Ox-Bow’s magic lies in its balance of solitude and collaboration. Mornings spent painting in my studio, afternoons kayaking the lagoon, and evenings sharing ideas over communal meals pushed my practice in unexpected directions. The structured critiques and access to facilities like the ceramics studio helped me experiment with new mediums. It’s rare to find a residency that fuels both your art and your spirit so profoundly.”
- Anonymous (2023 Resident)
Insider Tip
Prioritize summer applications for fully funded spots and access to Ox-Bow’s vibrant community of visiting artists and faculty. If seeking skill-building, apply for the fall hybrid residency, which combines workshops with studio time. Arrive early to explore the lagoon and trails.
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#13 Yaddo
Location: Saratoga Springs, New York, United States
Duration: 2–8 weeks
Disciplines: Visual arts, literature, music composition, performance, film, video, media arts
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 12%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium-High
Application Deadline: February and September
Application Fee: $35
Why Yaddo is Among the Best
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Historic Setting: A 400-acre estate that offers an inspiring, retreat-like environment.
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Artistic Freedom: No pressure to produce or present work; complete creative autonomy.
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Diverse Community: Welcomes artists of varying backgrounds and disciplines, encouraging cross-pollination.
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Notable Alumni: Has supported multiple Pulitzer Prize winners and other influential figures in the fine arts.
Who It’s For
Artists seeking an idyllic retreat, free from external expectations, where they can fully focus on new ideas.
What Residents Say
“Yaddo transformed how I saw my work—no longer just a hobby, but vital art-making. The gift of uninterrupted time in private studios, communal dinners sparking unexpected collaborations, and walks through 400 acres of woods reshaped my practice. Though initially isolated as a visual artist among writers, I left with a renewed belief that creating art matters intrinsically."
- Laura McBride (2017 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply early, emphasizing a specific project needing focused time. Highlight professional-level work in your portfolio, as jurors prioritize artistic merit over outcomes. Note financial need for potential access grants covering travel/supplies. Avoid common errors: read guidelines thoroughly (many rejections stem from ignored instructions).
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#14 Bundanon Artists in Residence Program
Location: Shoalhaven River, New South Wales, Australia
Duration: 1–6 weeks
Disciplines: Visual arts, performing arts, literature, dance, music, environmental research
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 13%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium-High
Application Deadline: May
Application Fee: Fee
Why Bundanon is Among the Best
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Historic Legacy: Founded by Arthur and Yvonne Boyd, two of Australia’s most celebrated artists, on a 1,000-hectare property gifted to the Australian people.
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Natural Sanctuary: Secluded bushland and riverfront landscapes foster uninterrupted creativity, free from urban distractions.
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Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Hosts over 250 selected artists annually across disciplines, encouraging cross-pollination of ideas.
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Institutional Partnerships: Collaborates with global institutions like Tate Modern and the British Council.
Who It’s For
Artists and researchers seeking immersion in Australia’s natural environment and engagement with First Nations history. Ideal for those wanting to explore connections between art, land, and culture.
What Residents Say
“My time at Bundanon was transformative. I arrived with plans to create large-scale papier-mâché memorials for extinct species, but the landscape reshaped my entire approach. The isolation—no phone signal, just the river, kangaroos, and endless eucalyptus—forced me to slow down and listen. Instead of executing my original proposal, I began collecting river stones and tracing erosion patterns on the Shoalhaven’s banks. The residency’s lack of outcome pressure allowed me to experiment with fragile, site-specific installations that interacted directly with the environment.
One morning, I found a wombat had rearranged my studio materials overnight. That collision between human intention and wild agency became central to my work. By the end, my project evolved into a series of ephemeral sculptures that decayed naturally, mirroring ecological cycles. Bundanon didn’t just give me space—it taught me humility. Now, back in my urban studio, I approach materials with a reverence I learned from that land."
- Anonymous (2024 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply 6–12 months ahead and emphasize how your creative work engages with landscape, First Nations culture, or interdisciplinary practice. Partnering with organizations like Regional Arts Australia can strengthen your application. First Nations artists are strongly encouraged to apply, with dedicated support for cultural projects.
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#15 Vermont Studio Center (VSC)
Location: Johnson, Vermont, United States
Duration: 2 weeks –1 month residency
Disciplines: Painting, sculpture, photography, writing, mixed media
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 25%
Language: English
Financial Support: Medium-Low
Application Deadline: March and September
Application Fee: $25
Why Vermont Studio Center is Among the Best
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Interdisciplinary Exchange: Integrates visual artists and writers, fostering creative cross-pollination.
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Short but Impactful: Two-week residencies offer an intense creative surge for those with limited time.
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Financial Accessibility: Generous fellowships and scholarships make VSC one of the most affordable residencies.
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Pastoral Tranquility: Nestled in Vermont’s northern Green Mountains, enhanced by rivers and walking trails.
Who It’s For
Visual artists and writers craving a focused, supportive community and a short-term, high-impact residency experience.
What Residents Say
“Vermont Studio Center is a great relaxing and quiet place to work. The beauty of Vermont is incredible, and I had such a productive two weeks! Having meals provided allowed me to focus entirely on my art, and the private studio space with natural light was ideal. While the residency is short, the connections I made with other artists and writers have lasted far beyond my time there.”
- Jackie Partridge (2018 Resident)
Insider Tip
Apply for multiple fellowship deadlines. Submitting to multiple deadlines increases your chances of securing funding. If waitlisted, inquire about work-study options (e.g., kitchen or administrative help) to offset costs, and consider winter residencies—they’re less competitive and often have more funding flexibility.
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Quick Reference Guide – Best Art Residencies 2025
This guide highlights key details for 15 top residencies. Use this reference guide to compare each program and find the best fit for your objectives.
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Rijksakademie (Netherlands)
Urban | Financial Support: Medium | Acceptance Rate: 2.3% | Duration: 1–2 years
Offers long-term, resource-rich residencies with global networks and expert technical support.
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Skowhegan (USA)
Rural | Financial Support: Medium | Acceptance Rate: 3% | Duration: 9 weeks
Fosters experimental collaboration through a self-directed, community-driven program.
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Akademie Schloss Solitude (Germany)
Semi-Rural | Financial Support: High | Acceptance Rate: 1.5% | Duration: 6–12 months
Combines historic Baroque architecture with interdisciplinary support for research.
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Banff Centre (Canada)
Rural | Financial Support: Medium | Acceptance Rate: 10% | Duration: 2–8 weeks
Provides mountain-secluded studios and cutting-edge facilities for focused experimentation.
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Casa Lü (Mexico)
Urban | Financial Support: Medium-Low | Acceptance Rate: 25% | Duration: 4–6 weeks
Bridges Latinx art networks via curated gallery visits, critiques, and exhibitions.
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Villa Medici (Italy)
Urban | Financial Support: High | Acceptance Rate: 4% | Duration: 1 year
Renaissance heritage with contemporary practice, offering stipends and cultural immersion.
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Fondation Fiminco (France)
Urban | Financial Support: High | Acceptance Rate: 8% | Duration: 11 months
Industrial-campus hub with end-to-end production labs and institutional partnerships.
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Jan van Eyck Academie (Netherlands)
Urban | Financial Support: Medium-Low | Acceptance Rate: 8% | Duration: 11 months
Post-academic multidisciplinarity via specialized labs and peer-driven projects.
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Black Rock (Senegal)
Urban | Financial Support: Medium-High | Acceptance Rate: 1.5% | Duration: 1–3 months
Retreat for Afro-diasporic dialogue, blending local craftsmanship with luxury studios.
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MMCA Residencies (South Korea)
Urban | Financial Support: High | Acceptance Rate: 12% | Duration: 3–6 months
Facilitates Korean-international exchange with exhibitions and stipends.
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MacDowell Colony (USA)
Rural | Financial Support: Medium-High | Acceptance Rate: 12% | Duration: 2–6 weeks
Historic sanctuary with private studios and legendary alumni since 1907.
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OxBow (USA)
Rural | Financial Support: Medium-Low | Acceptance Rate: 20% | Duration: 3 weeks
Balances woodland solitude with communal critiques and interdisciplinary skill-sharing.
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Yaddo (USA)
Semi-Rural | Financial Support: Medium-High | Acceptance Rate: 12% | Duration: 2–8 weeks
New York retreat prioritizing peer-reviewed artistic merit and uninterrupted creative focus.
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Bundanon (Australia)
Rural | Financial Support: Medium-High | Acceptance Rate: 13% | Duration: 1–6 weeks
Arthur Boyd’s 1,000-hectare haven for ecological and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
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Vermont Studio Center (USA)
Rural | Financial Support: Medium-Low | Acceptance Rate: 25% | Duration: 2–4 weeks
Largest US residency program emphasizing intensive artist-writer interactions.