RESIDENCY PROGRAM
Artist In Residence (AIR) Program at Arlene’s
The Artist in Residence (AIR) Program at Arlene’s strengthens the creative landscape of New York State’s Capital Region by supporting artists as they deepen their studio practice, build meaningful community connections, and create work that inspires dialogue, reflection, and engagement.
Image: At the closing reception for Shared Threads at CREATE Community Studios – Troy in May 2026, the 2023–24 Artists in Residence—Maria DeAngelo, Ottavia Huang, Aly Parrott, and Tracy Loring—joined Jennifer Wilkerson of Brosgé Clothing to celebrate their collaborative exhibition blending fine art and sustainable fashion. The evening captured the spirit of creativity, connection, and community that defines the Artist in Residence Program at Arlene’s.
About the Program
The Artist in Residence (AIR) Program at Arlene’s is a year‑long opportunity for artists to deepen their studio practice, develop a cohesive body of work, and connect with a supportive creative community in New York State’s Capital Region. Designed for artists seeking dedicated time and space to explore ideas, refine their direction, and prepare for a solo exhibition, the program offers structure, mentorship, and room to grow.
Residents receive studio access, participate in Guest Critiques, and work toward a culminating exhibition in the R Gallery. Throughout the year, AIRs are also automatically included in Makers Markets at Arlene’s, giving them meaningful opportunities to share and sell their work. Community engagement is a core element of the residency. Each AIR designs and leads a project that connects with Arlene’s community—whether through collaborative artmaking, public participation, or other creative approaches that invite people into the artistic process.
Open to artists working in any medium, the AIR Program selects residents through an application process based on the quality of their work, clarity of their goals, and their interest in being an active part of Arlene’s creative community.
Become an Artist in Residence
“I’ve gained a sense of community, teaching workshops to artists, learning from other artists, and finding a safe, supportive environment to create art.” - Maria DeAngelo, Artist in Residence, 2022-23 & 2023-24
Becoming an Artist in Residence at Arlene’s offers artists a rare opportunity to deepen their studio practice, build a cohesive body of work, and grow within a supportive creative environment. Residents receive studio access during store hours, a solo exhibition in the R Gallery, and ongoing guest critiques and professional development that strengthen both artistic direction and confidence. They are automatically included in all Makers Markets, featured on the AIRwaves podcast, and supported with meaningful opportunities to engage with Arlene’s community while gaining visibility through the organization’s promotional channels. The AIR Program gives artists the structure, encouragement, and creative freedom to experiment, connect, and take meaningful next steps in their artistic journey. For further information or questions regarding the Artist in Residence (AIR) Program at Arlene’s, please check out the FAQs or email arlenesartist@gmail.com.
What We Look For
Arlene’s is looking for Artists in Residence who are self‑motivated, deeply committed to their studio practice, and passionate about developing a meaningful project that connects with our creative community. Ideal candidates are artists who take initiative, work independently, and are excited to engage with others through collaboration, conversation, and community‑driven work. We welcome artists who bring curiosity, generosity, and a desire to grow—both in their own practice and within the wider Arlene’s ecosystem. Interested applicants should review the Artist in Residence (AIR) Program Overview & Residency Requirements for the full breakdown of expectations, structure, and opportunities before applying.
How to Apply
Every spring, we accept proposals from artists interested in the Artist in Residence (AIR) Program at Arlene’s through our online application. Calls for submissions are announced through our mailing list, website, and social media channels. Applications for the 2027 residency cycle are open through Saturday, July 18, 2026, by 5 pm (EST). Learn More and Apply.
Along with a project proposal outlining the artist’s vision and plan—including their community project proposal—we request an artist statement, a short bio, and work samples that demonstrate the artist’s ability to carry out the proposed work.