The Collaborative Residency will provide an opportunity for 3 local artists working with varied mediums to share a studio space for 5 months (Sept.-Jan.) culminating in a collaborative exhibition at The Underground: A Center for Creative Collaboration during the month February. Three chosen artists will be provided a shared studio space at The Underground and develop their practice in cooperation with each other over the course of 5 months, culminating in a collaborative exhibition and a public art component. Each artist will be provided a cash stipend of $500 in addition to a materials budget of $500. This pioneering program emphasizes a strong collaborative element by placing artists in close proximity and supporting them in the development of a shared creative vision. It will cater to artists seeking a meaningful opportunity to expand their social practice.

The Collaborative Residency will further the development of the arts in Charlottesville by providing financial support, organizational support, publicity, and space to selected artists. It will accomplish all this while inspiring our community and putting a spotlight on creative collaboration. ARTISTS SHOULD APPLY INDIVIDUALLY. Applications for groups or teams of artists will not be accepted.

S P E C I F I C S

Selected artists will have access to their shared studio space for 5 months. Artists will be required to document their experiences with two blog posts (at the beginning and end of the residency program) to be shared with the public on web and social media. Artists will hold monthly formal meetings with the program coordinator (Executive Director of The Bridge) to check in and assure positive experiences and progress toward meaningful outcomes. The residency will take place at The Underground: A Center for Creative Collaboration, The Bridge’s co-working and studio space.  As a result, not only will the artists draw inspiration from their collaborative partners, they’ll be embedded within a supportive and inspiring creative community.

The Collaborative Residency program provides a unique opportunity for 3 selected artists to explore their practice in a fresh communal environment, in proximity to other artists, with the expressed purpose of pursuing diversity in collaboration.