The building itself is pretty, with a little garden to enjoy when the whether is nice, though some of the studio spaces can be challenging to keep warm in the winter. One aspect I highly recommend is how they facilitate connections with local organizations and other artists, helping you network within the community. The organizers very warm and welcoming are, regularly checking in to see how everything is going. However, when it comes to costs, the residency requires participants to secure their own funding.
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It was an excellent process to explore other places and be able to exhibit and discuss my work with people I don't know and who want to show me what I don't see about my work. I enjoy the friendships I made. I loved La Plata. The art there is really special and realistic.
I had to do it more alone but I felt good about my processes, I was able to get to know the city better, reconnect with old friends and realize that art is very collective.
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It was very nice environment, and people were so friendly to talk & work with. I'm so happy to be there!! The kitchen could more organized :)
Location 5Studio 5Professional 5Support 5Community 5
Pros: Juan Pablo and Rodrigo have access to the local art community and will always provide you with different activities like artist’s, community dance lessons, classes, openings, exhibitions, artist talks…etc. They have a large bedroom with two desk, a twin bed, and large studio with frames. The founders of the residency will work with you one-on-one and help you get whatever you need for your project, including connections with local artists or professors that can help you better your craft. La Plata, Argentina is a small and very walkable due to a gridded street system so it’s easy to get around.
Cons: I went in the winter and it was very cold. Argentina does not have centralized heating. When I told the Juan Pablo and Rodrigo they gave me some extra blankets which helped. The room and bathroom will have a space heater, but the studio does not.
Cost: I paid 900$ and I was able to be a part of college classes La Facultad de Bellas Artes for free. I took community tango lessons for free, and Juan Pablo and Rodrigo showed me around the city. I was able to be a part of 3 free college level classes a week. My residency housemate was a photographer and he would be driven to photography sites and helped also be connected to people in the community to reach his specific needs. When I left I had a showing of my work and a studio visit in the residency’s gallery space. Overall totally worth the investment.
Tips: If you ask you shall receive! I waited about a week to get settled in the residency until I asked Juan Pablo and Rodrigo about classes and I immediately became a part of them. Have a plan if things you want to do and ask for connections! If you come one the winter bring long underwear. Id have some Spanish knowledge to be able to better take advantage of opportunities in the community.
Location 5Studio 4Professional 5Support 4Community 5
