fall residency program

In an inspirational setting removed from the distractions of daily life, CIAR’s Fall Residency Program offers visual artists focused time and a uniquely supportive environment to develop their work. On a small island off the coast of Massachusetts, CIAR hosts a group of twelve artists, who are invited to use the island itself as their studio. Living together in the historic Avalon Inn, the residents have uninterrupted time to become immersed in their creative process. Many use the time to reflect, learn from one another, and find inspiration from their costal surroundings. Residents build insight and camaraderie as they sit down to meals together, cooked by CIAR's wonderful chef. Click on the links below to learn more about the residency and how to apply.

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In 2024, Duke Riley will deliver the Visiting Artist talk and Dr. Katie Castagno will join as our first Visiting Scientist, to create interdisciplinary dialogue and to explore Cuttyhunk through an ecological and climate-based lens.

Facilities and Media

CIAR accepts visual artists working in all mediums. We encourage applicants who will benefit from nature as a tool in their creative process, especially those who will use the unique natural environment of Cuttyhunk Island as their studios. Our facilities are conducive to artists with a portable studio practice, an ability to work on projects with easy set-up and break-down methods. Artists may also set up temporary work spaces on our large wraparound, covered porch overlooking Vineyard Sound. We also see this time as a way for artists to wander, think, and sketch. The beautiful nature trails and quiet beaches offer a sense of escape from our busy lives. On Cuttyhunk, one can forget what day of the week it is and leave the house without keys, wallets, phones.

Examples of work methods supported by our facilities:

• drawing
• painting
• collage
• small sculpture projects (not needing special tools or shop space)
• photography
• video

Fellowships:

Cuttyhunk Island Artists' Residency accepts visual artists working in any medium with exceptional quality of work and who show profound commitment to their practice.

A full fellowship covers the entire cost of residency including tuition, housing, and all meals. All participants will need to provide for their own transportation to and from Cuttyhunk, whether or not they receive a fellowship. **Please note that fellowship recipients will be placed in a shared room accommodation.**

• The Open Merit Fellowship is given to an artist based on artistic merit and covers the full residency cost.
• The Wellspring Fellowship is given to an artist who is also a parent with a child under the age of 18 yrs and covers the full residency cost.
• ​The Paul Cuffe Fellowship, named for Cuttyhunk’s historic resident, is dedicated to an artist of color and covers the full residency cost.
• Partial / Work-Study Fellowship offers a reduced residency cost in exchange for working up to one hour each day with our wonderful kitchen crew (usually washing pots). Amount of award will depend on the number of recipients.