I’m Going WHERE to do WHAT?
I have put together a little FAQ of some of the more common questions I’ve received when I’ve told people I’m going to attend an artist residency program in Mexico City for a month this fall:
What is an artist residency exactly??
If you google it, here is the explanation that comes up:
“An artist's residency is a structured program where artists, often from different backgrounds and disciplines, come together to work on their creative projects for a specific period of time. These residencies can take place in various locations such as art centers, studios, or remote retreats, both nationally and internationally.”
No, but really what do you do while you’re there?
All programs are not structured the same but the one I will be participating in will combine time for working on my exhibition project, collaboration with other artists in attendance at the same time I am there, mentorship and guidance from staff as I work through my project, group activities and excursions to check out local artists and art spaces. I will also have a little bit of off time to hang out in one of my favourite cities when not doing any of the above.
What do you mean when you say exhibition project?
As part of the application process for this program I had to outline an art project I could complete within my month long stay at the residency. At the end of the program all of the artists put on an exhibition night where local members of the community can come and check out what we have been working on. Hopefully there’s no booing.
Do you get paid to participate?
In this case, no. But some residencies do offer compensation as part of the program. Those ones tend to be highly competitive and are more suitable for more established artists than myself. If any of you want to give me money please feel free.
What is the goal of the residency if you’re not getting paid?!
This is a great opportunity for me personally for several purposes including: I will have designated time and space to work uninterrupted, the ability to collaborate with the local art community as well as other visiting artists, I will receive mentorship and guidance from established artists and teachers, exposure to a larger audience etc etc etc.
For me personally, it will be a giant stepping stone in my journey as I work to build more of a community with other artists. I’m very much in the “emerging artist” phase of my career and need all the help I can get.
Why did you choose to apply to a residency in Mexico?
I. Love. Mexico. I’ve only been a handful of times, once to Oaxaca, once to Tulum and Mexico City twice before. I’ve never gone the resort route though Tulum felt close to what I suspect that would be like, it’s not really my jam but I see the appeal. Culturally I find Mexico so vibrant and full of life and art. I am very influenced by Mexican style in my work in terms of colours, textures and imagery.
For those who are curious or unsure: Mexico City specifically is NOT super dangerous (famous last words)! Like any big city you need to know where you’re going, be careful on your own or after dark etc etc but it is no different than any other major city in North America in terms of risk. As mentioned I’ve been twice to MC before and when taking the proper precautions I never felt threatened or afraid in any way. They have an insane food culture, tons of public art and friendly people. I will be there for Dia de Muertos again this year and I cannot wait.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN WITH ALL YOUR DOGS?
Their dad will take good care of them in my absence. At least one will likely die from the trauma of missing me but what can you do?
