betterArts (www.betterarts.org) offers a unique opportunity to artists, writers, performers, and musicians with a residency program based out of Better Farm, a 65-acre
sustainability campus nestled in the foothills of the Adirondacks and the Thousand Islands Region. Residencies are designed to offer artists of every discipline space and time to work on specific projects; whether a series of paintings, a composition, book, set of sculptures, or album.
Located 10 miles from the Canadian Border along the St. Lawrence River and Indian River Lakes System, Better Farm offers an unparalleled rural living
experience. There are three lakes within walking distance; an on-site
pond; vegetable, fruit, and herb gardens; shop space; open-air sheds for pottery and painting; and a two-story, renovated barn functioning as gallery and studio space. A private room, 24/7 access to a fully stocked communal kitchen, linens and towels, WiFi, parking, and round-the-clock access to the
Art Barn are all included in a low stipend required of all residents.
The environment is simple and communal. Residents are expected to do their share in maintaining the condition of Better Farm as well as its peaceful environment.
betterArts residents are encouraged to interact and participate in the goings-on around the property, and to help out with chores and farm-related responsibilities between three and five hours each week. These responsibilities may include working in the gardens, participating in arts-related community outreach projects, helping with house chores, cooking, or assisting with other odd jobs. At the conclusion of each residency, an artist is required to present his or her work to the public in a gallery show, reading, performance, or via some other appropriate medium.
Residencies are for two weeks, three weeks, one month, or two-month periods. Basic facilities at Better Farm will be provided; but betterArts residents are expected to provide the majority of materials and equipment they would need for the production of their work.
The standards for admission are talent, desire to live and work at Better Farm, and a willingness to have a go at the Better Theory: a belief that each moment presents us with the opportunity for exponential personal growth.
Download the application at www.betterarts.org/residencies
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