Artist residencies vary greatly and with such a diversity on offer, you will likely find one that aligns with your practice. But before you start packing, reflect on the following questions to see if a residency is right for you.

Paid or unpaid?
Many residencies are not paid opportunities. Whilst Guildhouse advocates that artists are paid for their time and work, it is at the discretion of the individual to undertake residencies and other unpaid opportunities.

If you select to apply for an unpaid residency, consider whether you will need to supplement lost income while you are away. Will you need to take leave from a part-time job? Can you send ample stock to your suppliers to facilitate sales during your absence?

What costs am I expected to cover?
What costs associated with the residency will you have to bear? Consider that you may have to pay rent for the studio space, food, travel, access to transport and materials. Some of these costs may be part of the offering, but it is important to clearly understand what you are required to pay.

Is accommodation provided?
Always check that accommodation is provided as part of the residency. Understand the type of accommodation on offer and whether this aligns with your needs. Is the space shared or private? What facilities (bathroom, kitchen etc.) might you share with other residents? How does the space accommodate your accessibility needs? Some residencies allow artists to bring their families.

What is the application process?
Some residencies are available on an ongoing basis with no set application deadline. Others have highly specific application, residency and outcome timelines. Read all guidelines and dates to ensure the residency expectations correspond with your plans. Check if there is an application fee. For tips on how to prepare your CV, artist statement and budget, refer to our toolkits. 

Are there any expected outcomes?
What outcomes or deliverables do your residency hosts expect? Are you required to give an artist talk, exhibit works-in-progress or teach a workshop? Have a clear understanding of what is required of you as an artist-in-residence. Be clear about the timing of any exhibition outcomes and inquire if this is included in the timing of your residency.

What other support is available during the residency?
It is worth checking with your residency provider if there is non-financial support offered to you while you are away. Will you be connected with members of the local community? How will your workshop or exhibition be promoted (if applicable)? This support can be a valuable way to grow your networks and build new audiences while you’re away.

Where is the residency?
Not all residencies are located within a major city. Familiarise yourself with the location of the studio and ensure that you are aware of the venues’ proximity to amenities such as shops, health services and transport. As residencies often afford artists with privacy and isolation to become immersed in a project, research the surrounds and be aware of the location.

What tools and materials should I bring?
Understand and plan for what tools and materials you need to take, what you need to source once arrived and what the residency provides. If you are making artwork on the residency, consider what you might want to bring home with you and if you need to allocate a budget line for freight in your residency funds. 

Do I need insurance?
Ask if public liability insurance is a requirement for the residency. It may be provided by the venue, but if not, be sure that your insurance will cover the new location and all activities you plan to undertake.

More information
NAVA has an extensive list of national and international residencies and is a great place to start if you’re hunting for a new opportunity.

Guildhouse Community and Accredited members are eligible for Advice Bank sessions. Discuss a range of topics with Guildhouse’s experienced art professionals, including; grant funding applications, professional documentation, marketing, communications, artist opportunities and more. Contact us for more information.