Red Wing Arts Residency Program

 
 

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The Red Wing Arts Residency Program invites artists working in any discipline to create in a place where art and community are deeply connected. Set in the vibrant and historic river town of Red Wing, MN, this residency offers artists the time, space, and support to explore ideas, take creative risks, and grow their practice.

Our main goals for this program are to:

  • Support artists by providing access to space, facilities, & equipment.

  • Build community awareness and support for artists through increased visibility and local connections.

  • Empower artists to create by providing space, time, and resources to work.

We aim to meet the needs of each individual artist as best we can, while providing a supportive environment that encourages experimentation, risk-taking, research, and development. Artists are invited to work in an independent workspace located in our Clay & Creative Center, where they have the freedom to develop new or existing works through a combination of technical and conceptual inquiry and experimentation.  

The Residency Program accepts one to three artists per year, from June 1 – October 31. Artists may choose to participate in a two-week, one month, two month, or three month residency. Residencies typically begin on or close to the 1st and 15th of each month. Upon selection and acceptance, staff will work with artists to determine the exact dates of the residency as well as possible community engagement activities.

ABOUT RED WING ARTS

Red Wing Arts (RWA) is a non-profit arts organization located in the heart of beautiful Red Wing, MN. Our mission is to build a vibrant community fueled by the arts. We enrich lives by connecting, celebrating, inspiring and leading through shared art experiences. Our vision is a community alive with creativity. 

Red Wing Arts is dedicated to creating a space where everyone feels they truly belong. We honor the distinctive stories and perspectives that each person brings - from race and gender to ability and experience - and we work to ensure that art enriches our collective journey. We are committed to building a community where every voice is valued and art becomes a bridge that connects us all. Our goal is to foster a welcoming environment where connection and creativity flourish. Learn more about RWA here.

PROVIDED BY RED WING ARTS

  • A private xbyx foot space with a table, chair, and shelving. Artists are welcome to use the community spaces if there are no other activities scheduled. Please note that while the private studio space is located in our building, it is not temperature controlled and may be warmer or cooler depending on the weather and season.

  • Access to studio tools and equipment including:

    • Skutt Electric Kiln 1027

    • North Star 30” Slab Roller

    • Brent & Laguna Pacifica Electric Pottery Wheels

    • Standard Pottery Tools and Brushes

    • Utility Sink

    • Work Benches & Tables

    • Wi-Fi and Printer

    • Resource Library

  • Artists will be given a monthly stipend of $1,500 to cover costs related to transportation, food, materials, childcare, or anything the artist views as necessary to complete the residency. If an artist is selected for a two-week residency, they will be given $750.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Artists must participate in a community engagement activity. This could be a workshop, capstone presentation, lecture, social gathering, installation of artwork with a reception, or similar.

  • There is no specific output or product requirement. The residency may be used purely for research or experimentation.

  • Artists are welcome to use the studio space, but it is not required.

  • Artists working in any medium are welcome to apply.

  • Open to professional and emerging artists ages 18 and up.

  • Artists must supply all their own materials and technology.

  • Artists are responsible for lodging and all transportation to and from the residency.

SELECTION CRITERIA

 Artistic Excellence

  1. Work examples demonstrate quality of artistic skills and techniques, or a dedication to the artist’s craft.

  2. The work is innovative and unique, demonstrating an original voice and vision.

Project Merit

  1. The project is a good fit for the community, adding value and opportunities for engagement and growth.

  2. The project has potential for artistic development and would add to the artist’s career.

  3. The project is feasible, and the artist has the ability to accomplish their goals in the required time.

TIMELINE

March 1, 2026 - Deadline to apply.

April 1, 2026 - Artists notified.

June 1, 2026 - Earliest start date.

TO APPLY

Applications are due by March 1st. Interested artists should submit an application using our online form. There is no fee to apply or participate. Application materials include:

  • Basic Demographics and Contact Information

  • Artist Statement, Bio, and Resume

  • 5 Work Examples

  • Statement of Interest and Intentions

  • Proposed Community Engagement Activities

Apply

For questions related to the Artist Residency Program, please contact Molly Rivera at molly.rivera@redwingarts.org or call 651-309-4980.