“A Room of One’s Own: Demystifying Artist Residencies” is open to all writers who are interested in learning more about artist residencies — what they are, why they exist, how to choose between them, and how to write a strong application. Though this class focuses on the perspective of writers, artists in other mediums (visual artists, musicians, dancers, etc.) are also likely to benefit from the suggestions around writing the artist statement and project work description.
How does this remote class work?
This class will take place on Zoom on Tuesday, January 13 from 6-8pm ET. The class will be recorded and shared via email with all enrolled participants.
How many people will be in this class?
Up to 20 people.
What will the class include?
Arya will share about her own experiences attending 7+ artist residencies — the key differences between them, her learnings, and how you might choose the type of residency that will suit you and your process best. She will also walk you through the key elements of the application — the artist statement, project plan, and work sample — and offer specific, concrete suggestions how to create the strongest application. While the class will mostly be informational and equip you with questions / suggestions to try outside of class, there will also be some time dedicated to drafting. Drawing on her own residency experiences, Arya will also share what it’s really like to have that room of your own and how to make the most of it. We’ll end with a Q&A to address your specific questions.
What will writers take away?
- A deeper understanding of artist residencies — the what, why, and how
- Practical advice, resources, and suggestions for how to find artist residency opportunities and submit your strongest application.
- Drafts of new artist statements and project plans, as well as specific questions and prompts to help you strengthen your materials beyond class.
- A supportive community of fellow writers motivated to take the leap
Who is the teacher?
Arya Samuelson is a writer, editor, and educator. She is the winner of New Ohio Review’s Non-Fiction Prize, Lascaux Review’s Nonfiction Prize, and CutBank’s Montana Prize in Non-Fiction awarded by Cheryl Strayed. Her work has also been published in Fourth Genre, Bellevue Literary Review, Columbia Journal, New Delta Review, The Manifest-Station, and elsewhere. She loves artist residencies and has been honored to attend residencies (or will soon!) at Ragdale Foundation, Marble House, Vermont Studio Center, Virginia Creative Center for the Arts, and Wassaic Project, among others. She has worked with literary organizations across the country and loves working with writers 1:1 and collectively to unearth the deeper story and transform it into art. Find out more about Arya here.
What is the cost?
The cost for this class is $100. However, recognizing that writers' access to financial resources exists across a wide spectrum, this class is being offered on a sliding scale between $75-$125. If severe economic hardship prevents you from accessing the lowest sliding scale, please send an email to Arya to inquire about the possibility of a scholarship.
Tuition is refundable up to 2 weeks before the class start date. Up to 7 days before class, tuition may be transferrable to a future class or service with Arya. Afterwards, tuition will be non-refundable or transferrable.
I’m ready! How do I register?
Payment is processed via Stripe and accepts all major credit cards, PayPal, and other payment options. If you have any questions about class before deciding, or any difficulties with registration, please email Arya.
