Group Discussion 8: Cultural tourist or resident artist? Short-term residencies

moderator: Alessio Antoniolli, Gasworks and Triangle Arts Trust

There seems to be a general assumption that residencies should last at least a couple of months to become meaningful both for the resident artist and the host institution. It is generally felt that the artist needs some time to settle in and get acquainted with his/her new environment before he can begin his research and creative process.

However, short-term residency models, particularly residencies tied to specific research, can be extremely successful. In times of financial crisis and general funding cuts to art programs, short-term residencies are a viable model that shouldn’t be dismissed. The success or failure of a short residency will invariably depend on the pre-residency period (including the amount of research that the artist does before his residency) but also on the host institution’s capacity to provide the guest artist with the needed infrastructural support and contacts on the spot.

Statements for Discussion

1. What is the ideal residency length? Does a longer residency necessarily imply a more productive/meaningful experience?
   

2. What can realistically be achieved in a two-week residency? How can a short residency be fruitful for both the resident artist and the host organization?
   

In order to ensure lively debate and leave room for in-depth discussions, we will be limiting the number of people per group to a maximum of 15 participants. We therefore invite you to send us an email stating what sessions you would like attend by March 17. Places will be available on a first come first serve basis.