The core imperative of Indigo Arts Alliance is to build global communities by bringing together artists from diverse backgrounds of the African Diaspora to engage in their creative process, participate in arts enrichment programs, and serve as both mentors and mentees. We welcome Black and Brown artists, scholars, and performers from around the globe to be in community Maine based artists in order to provide access to a broader range of practicing artists from around the world.
When does the residency begin and end?IAA offers residency programs ranging in length between the months of February and November. Once applicants have been selected, Indigo staff will work with you to identify the time of year and length of your residency. Minimum length is two weeks. Maximum length is eight weeks.
How much does it cost to apply?There is no cost to apply to the Artist-in-Residence program.
Do you accept international applicants?Yes, the program accepts applications from artists working locally, nationally, and internationally. Please note, however, that Indigo Arts Alliance cannot provide visas, nor can it sponsor international applicants. All international artists in the residency program must secure their own visas and/or passports prior to their arrival. If accepted, Indigo Arts Alliance will pay for any travel expenses required for AIR’s arrival/departure.
What kinds of documents does the application require?Two recommendations, a resume (or CV), and an artist statement. There are two question prompts that you are required to answer. No word documents please; these materials should be consolidated into a single PDF file. In addition, You must attach 5- 10 samples of work created within three years of applying (up to 5MB each). For writers: Submitted writing samples should not exceed 1,500 words as a PDF file. For video or audio documentation of performance or media-based work, file should not exceed 10 minutes. Please provide links to YouTube, Vimeo, SoundCloud, and other websites (If submitted, they should not exceed 250MB each).
When will I hear back about my application?The application process will be open from August. 1 – Sept. 15, 2021. Announcements for the 2022-2023 residents will be announced November 2021.
How does the application process work? Is it possible to receive feedback if I am not accepted?We encourage applicants to review our website, and determine if they would be a good fit. Residency applications are reviewed by a rotating jury of scholars, artists, curators, and creative professionals. Due to the volume of applicants, we cannot offer individual feedback, but we encourage you to email info@indigoartsalliance with any questions with the understanding that we may or may not be able to respond due to capacity.
How much does the residency award the Mentor artist?Mentor Residents receive a $2,000 stipend paid out in thirds, and are provided off site housing on a need be basis. For any significant distances, or out of state travel, Indigo Arts Alliance will pay for any travel expenses required for your arrival/departure.
How much does the Mentee Resident receive for participating in the program? The Mentee artist has applied in hopes of broadening their exposure, networks or technical skills by overlapping with an established artist who is a master in their field. In this capacity, the Mentee Residents receive a $1,000 stipend paid out in thirds.
Do I have to work in a specific medium to apply?No. We value and encourage artists who work in all forms of creative expression to apply! Our facilitates can accommodate all mediums, including but limited to writing, music, painting, fiber/textiles, drawing, sculpture, and more. If our facilities cannot accommodate your project, we are able to partner with other local studios with specialized equipment who can assist in facilitating your work.
Do I need to have a specific project in mind before I apply?The purpose of this residency is to give you the time and space You can apply with a portfolio of your works previously completed, you can continue works in progress, or begin a new body of work during your residency.
Is there an education or professional requirement to be a resident?No, there is no education requirement. There is not a formal education or training requirement, but the caliber of this program is high and there is an expectation that you have an established degree of experience and competency in your practice and craft. Residents should have 2+ years of exhibition and studio experience.
Does my application have to be in English?Yes. All applicants must submit their applications in English.
How often am I allowed to apply?Once every two years
Am I allowed to defer my residency? Under special circumstances your residency may be deferred.
What if I don’t know which residency I should apply for: the Mentee or the Mentor? You are able to apply to either. The AIR selection committee will make the decision based on your application materials
Do you allow collaborators to apply for the residency? Yes, artists that are seeking to work together to move forward ideas or concepts can apply. Artists that have a working or teaching history together can apply. Although we do not formally host artist teams, we do encourage and support collaborative work that residents ignite during their residency.
What is expected out of the Mentor/Mentee relationship during the course of the residency? Mentoring is a dialogue between and among artists who share cultural histories and experiences. We intentionally pair artists to cultivate rich conversation, collaboration, and exchange experiences, stories, knowledge, art industry information and technical skills. Throughout the residency, the two paired artists are expected to work independently in their own practice. However, we require them to commit to a minimum of 8-10 hours a week throughout the week. The goal of the pairing is to build positive relationships that enhance and stretch each of you as artists and human beings. Community engagement connects the artists to the general public, showcasing their creative practices while increasing awareness of the skill and thought leadership of diverse talent.
Are there Covid related guidelines that are in place?Yes, the Indigo Arts Alliance staff values the care and safety of our local and global community. The wellness of our artists, supporters, and allies is deeply important when navigating the world in a global pandemic. Please refer to our Covid Guide and Policies document for more information on how IAA is responding.
All inquiries must be submitted via our Application portal
