Jilotepec, Mexico
Cobertizo residency, designed for both individual and duo art projects, offers a professional workspace and a community focused on artistic exchange and reflection. The four-week program in Mexico includes hosting, transport, meals, and professional mentorships from artists and curators. Residents also benefit from a trip to Mexico City, exploring diverse art spaces and galleries. Cobertizo's open call accepts eight residents per period, with applications reviewed by the Cobertizo team. Facilities include private bedrooms, individual studios with wifi, communal areas, and support for project realization. The program culminates in an Open Studio event, showcasing residents' work to the local community, former residents, and art scene professionals. While transportation to Cobertizo is covered, plane tickets are not included. The residency fosters critical mentorships, dialogue, and immersion in Mexico's vibrant art scene.
Cobertizo is a nice residence for production in terms of space and accompaniment. You also get in touch with some galleries. The cost is a bit high compare to the rewards received.
The studio are semi-private, for better or for worse. Loved the experience of Cobertizo!! Would highly recommend
Resources are limited in Jilotepec. I saw that as a challenge, but is important to take with you any essentials from the city in advance. Any way, take for sure that staff is ready to help you solve any problem. Wifi is not the best in the world, take that in mind if internet is a key part of your work. You will love the place, the food, and unique atmosphere.
The space is beautiful you are in the nature but also can go to the little town. The studio and the rooms are also very nice and can be use very well for any kind of practice . The team that works in the residency is also amazing and help you with everything. The food is the best. Being able to share my work with the otter residents and the mentor was life changing. Also the final open studio was really nourishing by sharing my work with people outside the residency. I highly recommend this residency.
Es interesante proponer un archivo constante de los residentes sobre los temas coincidentes y que detona el espacio y la región de jilotepec, por ejemplo un recetario, que era algo que comentábamos con Cármen, responsable del area de cocina. (It is interesting to propose a constant archive of the residents on the matching themes that detonates the space and the region of Jilotepec, for example, a recipe book, which was something we discussed with Carmen, responsible for the kitchen area.)
You can source tools and other materials in the town!
Benefits: Great opportunity to dip one's toes into Mexico's art district. Challenges: Little to no knowledge of the Spanish language poses a significant obstacle to meeting local actors. (No mediators available). Practical advice: It is advisable to adapt one's artistic practice to an itinerary dynamic. There are little to no supplies available in town and the staff can't provide basic tools. Costs vs. Gains: At a price of USD 1800 (for non-Mexicans, 2022) this residency is a bona fide scam. They are not able to deliver on their promises and often advertised opportunities which were, in fact, unavailable.