Artist Residency Reviews

AQB has a great community of local residents; I very much enjoyed my time there and the people I met. However, given the residency fee, the support and care from the faculty was not the best. I’ve participated in several residencies where no payment was required, yet they offered significantly higher levels of professionalism and artist support. In comparison, this experience was unfortunately quite disappointing.

I think back fondly on my residency at A Studio in the Woods despite the unsettled stories that live in that land. Between my workspace and my bedroom, I was comfortable and inspired to work. The land itself was perfect for contemplating my own practice, which draws from ancestral memory. The soil and the trees at ASITW have plenty to say to those who listen. I foraged banana leaves for the project I was working on and for my personal reserves. It's a pleasure to be given a small building to make an art mess in. My studio was well lit with a beautiful view and just about all the features worked. The staff was organized with regard to payments, reimbursements, scheduling, logistics. It makes all the difference. Three years later I still receive friendly correspondence from the ASITW team. With New Orleans as the hands this program is held in, it can be immensely enriching. The city is home to countless artists, legends and storytellers worth knowing.

I attended the MADE Creatives in Residence in spring 2024 and had such a great time that I extended my stay (with permission of the host and organizer Yesica). The experience was a positive reset on life, and a reminder of joie de vivre in the every day. The rhythm and pace of life in San Miguel de Allende is different, and it reminds you too, that there are many ways to live. Small daily interactions on the streets and with classmates in art classes reverberated with a warmth that reminded you how relationships with people are important. It was a notable contrast to the everyday hustle in the US. SMA is a special place not just in comparison to the US, but is known as being part of the “cultural heart” of Mexico itself, so it attracts many people from all over. I felt Yesica went out of her way to help me and the other residents connect with the uniqueness of the town, the many cultural traditions and celebrations during the spring season, and the local art institutions. I took painting, printmaking and cartonería courses and the classes were a mix of locals, seasonal visitors, long-term expats, and shorter term visitors like myself. The instructors brought so much knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to their craft, I could understand why some students were long-term repeats. The historic buildings where I took art courses were stunning and an incentive to go to class. I also spent time working at the residency and enjoyed the quietness at times and the dynamic of running into cohort colleagues who were going to/from classes. Sometimes we would hang out on the upper patio and chat and occasionally enjoy the evening air and stars, or join each other on walks or outings. I liked living in a neighborhood and felt safe on my own. My cohort included people from different parts of the US, Caribbean/US, South America and Europe. Yesica organized weekly dinners for the group, prepared by an amazing local cook who brings love to her food and you. During dinners we would share our weeks, what we learned, and also talk about upcoming events or outings that might be of interest to us. Yesica was very organized and knowledgeable about what was going on, and even gave recommendations and organizational support for day trips or weekend trips to nearby places. She was very flexible and open to us, knowing that we each had various interests and focuses while at the residency. I felt inspired by the work of other artists in my cohort, and what I saw in town, as there are many museums and galleries. It is a vibrant scene. The cumulative experience made me feel energized in my own work.

I found MADE to be well-maintained, clean and a lot of care into the space. It is not an airbnb or a hotel, so you do take care of your own space, but the sheets, etc, are changed mid- month. It is like many artist residencies where you are responsible for cleaning up after yourself and if you need to borrow a broom, it is easy to ask. 

As someone who has spent time working and living abroad, this was a great place to stay and a memorable and positive experience. It is important to be open to other ways of living, and to be mindful of resources in a finite world. The popularity of SMA and a warming planet has resulted in water concerns for the mountain town - I saw two fliers for public talk/presentations about while I was there (organized by long-term US expats). Caring for the place that you visit is important whenever you go; you are a guest given the gift of time to be in special place. 
 Towards the end of my stay, I came across a painted bench outside of an elementary school that read, “Lo esencial es invisible a los ojos, solo se puede ver con el corazón”. (The essential is invisible to the eyes, it can only be seen with the heart). It was a positive message to share with young children, but felt it was a reminder to adults too, to see with your heart. I highly recommend the MADE Creatives in Residence as a recharge for the heart and spirit, led by the big hearted Yesica who brings people together and instills the values of community and care for the residents and the community at large.

This is a persistent spam.

I am a 71 year old woman who was traveling alone to MADE for the month of January, 2025, in one of the apartments. When I found out I was going to be the only resident there, alone in the house by myself and in a strange neighborhood and city I almost cancelled. I am so glad that I didn’t. My month in SMA at MADE was one of the most magical and transformative experiences of my life. I felt so safe and comfortable that I freely explored the city and immersed myself in the neighborhood and my art. I created 4 beautiful works of art while there. Artist in Residencies are not luxury Airbnb’s. You are not paying for that. Having been to residencies in Mexico and Europe I can tell you that most of these residencies are very old buildings without a lot of modern amenities. Rooms are cold and drafty. Plumbing can be sketchy and most operate without heat or air conditioning. If your read the profiles of many of the Airbnb properties in SMA they advise you that they don’t have heat or AC and if you can’t handle it don’t stay there. I loved everything about my stay at MADE and found Yesica to be an incredibly thoughtful host who was very generous with her time and her desire to show you the heartbeat of SMA. I understand that experiences vary, and while mine was very positive, others may have different perspectives. Personally, I have made a life long friend with Yesica Guerra after my stay at MADE and I will be returning soon.

Overview: Dates of Residency: March 2025. I applied online after a friend attended (September 2024), a community colleague (March 2024), and life changes occurred (death and unemployment). Application Process: The application process was straightforward to follow. Provided my interest in attending the program and my intention. I received a call soon after submitting from Yesica, founder/creative director. I explained where I was in my life and what I had accomplished over the years as a creative. I explained that I had heard of San Miguel de Allende (SMA) and her facilitation and process, with everyone having positive experiences. We discussed photography and printmaking classes, given the access I would have after completing the residency to continue my practice. Time of year: When we spoke, we discussed the availability and the best time to attend and enjoy the city's culture and events. I was given time to decide when it was best to participate after being informed about what the program could offer. I responded within a month that I would be attending in March. I have neurodivergent tendencies, and after submitting my deposit, Yesica reached out and encouraged me to submit paperwork in a timely manner. Unfortunately, in January 2025, some programs were temporarily closed, and the photography workshop I had planned to take would be unavailable while I was there. I was informed quickly, and I pivoted to taking a class at El Sindicato, a cultural center that employs local artists and is a pillar of the community. Discipline: Photography & Drawing. Overall Impression/Rating: 5 stars - I highly recommend. Facilities and Resources: Studio space: I chose a single room. The room was ample and allowed for privacy when needed. Ventilation was excellent, as to be expected of city living, but even better because you are in SMA. The space was clean, there was cleaning schedule discussed prior to attending and if you wanted to clean outside of that schedule supplies were offered. There was plenty of natural light. If you know Mexican homes in that region, you are aware that they often have a central area of natural light, which is incredible! The residents had access to both the downstairs and upstairs outdoor areas. Upon the recommendation and assistance of Yesica, we placed a long table on the first floor, allowing us to work on projects outside of workshop times with daylight. At any given moment, it could be one artist working alone or a group of us sharing our experiences. Accommodations: I was informed of all that would be provided in a thorough contract, and a week before arriving, the cohort was introduced and connected via a group thread. Three days before the residency began, I received another message via the group thread, informing me of the internet access, the closest place for groceries, and small businesses near the residency. Yesica provided us with the name of a laundry facility that others had used and been satisfied with. When I spoke with Yesica the first time, she informed me about the hill near the residency and the distance to the laundry facility. It was incredible to walk to and from town. I felt safe, and Yesica provided the cohort with an extensive list of restaurants, coffee shops, art stores, leisure activities, and entertainment options. There is a great deal to do in SMA. Yesica also provided the name of a taxi service in case it was needed. Taxis were accessible, along with Uber. Responsiveness: Yesica responded promptly to any questions or concerns – I rarely had any, thanks to the information provided upon arrival. Workshops/ Program Structure and Support: Printmaking: My instructor was fantastic. I learned linocut (completed three prints), Tetra-Pak printmaking (two prints), and Collography (one print). The instructor was accessible and very thorough. She spoke about her life growing up in Mexico and her learning process. I was able to see her work, and she shared insights about the region of Mexico where she grew up and how it influenced some of her pieces and her teaching with local students. The class was 2-3 people. Mexican Cartoneria: My instructor was incredibly joyful and knowledgeable. Not only was I taught how to do the sculpting, but I was also able to learn the history of the art form. The classes included locals and another resident. The space was filled with the cultural richness and vibrancy of the community. I created a meaningful piece that resonated with me culturally and reflected who I am becoming. Honors my past, respects my present, and provides me with the hope for my future. The instructor was accessible outside of class hours and was able to provide direction when I worked on my project at the residency. Yesica also assisted with the process, and I was able to get input from my cohort – we provided each other feedback throughout our stay. Library/Research Resources: Yesica provided several books throughout my time there, and we discussed others that intersect with creativity and wellness, which fall within my specialty. Community/Peer Interaction: While there, Yesica offered information about local events and the connection with traditions in the area. The city's culture is evident in our visits to the People's Market, Fabrica Aurora, and Atotonilco (home to the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site), as well as our encouragement to explore places like the Toy Museum, Bellas Artes, the Saturday Organic Market, and the Mercado de Artesanias. I only know all of this because Yesica provided the information. Conclusion: I am providing a thorough response because my experience was terrific, and if you are open to being culturally immersed in search of some connection or inspiration, then this may be a good fit for you. I felt safe, cared for, and appreciated for where I was in my journey at the time of arrival, while being mentored and nudged to step outside my comfort zone, which I enjoyed and expected in such a space. I met with other artists who are friends of friends, and I spoke to them about the program, the space, and the direction I was being given. They were all very impressed. I have also discussed the program with others in my artist circle and have referred several to attend. My father-in-law is an artist who used to take students to SMA, and he also stated that he was impressed with my experience. I have and will continue to recommend this program because it was an invaluable experience with a beautiful cohort brought together with intention by Yesica.

First of all, the SPA International Residency is a three-month, collective-based program, meaning applicants must apply as a group and live together for three months at the residency space. For artists who usually go solo, this requirement might seem like a high barrier. The good news is that the institution welcomes both pre-existing and newly formed collectives. So, if you're open to collective practices or have been longing for the time and space to explore one, this residency could be an ideal opportunity. And that was exactly what I did. Together with three other artist friends, we formed a new collective to apply for the program and were fortunate to be selected. The experience, in every aspect, was very satisfying and rewarding. Since it's a new residency program (our round was the inaugural one), everything is freshly renovated. Each resident is provided with a compact IKEA-style suite, including a bedroom, a studio space, and a private bathroom. There's also a fully equipped shared kitchen and living area. A note is that the residency "studios" resemble offices more than traditional artist studios. There are strict guidelines requiring spaces to be kept tidy and returned to their original condition. As a result, the environment is better suited to "clean" practices—such as image-based or concept-driven work—rather than messy or material-heavy processes. Another note is that unfortunately there are no fabrication facilities available at the residency, so there is no wooden or metal workshop, etc. We had an open studio session in the middle of our stay, hosted over 100 visitors throughout the day, and received lots of positive feedback. The residency also resulted in a final exhibition, the information of which could be easily found on the SPA website. Overall, I can say I highly recommend this residency program.

MADE is a creative refuge for anyone who wants to explore their craft and enrich their perspective. The house represents Mexico's history so beautifully, inviting the cohort to co-create while also providing everyone with their own safe space. MADE's team is caring and supportive, guiding residents from beginning to end. My only recommendation for anyone who feels called to apply (especially if you've never been to SMA) is to be genuinely interested in immersing yourself in a wonderful and rich culture. It's a perfect opportunity to question and transform your voice within your work by engaging with SMA's people, gastronomy, history, and art.

Benefits: It's wonderful to get away from your world and your rhythms, immerse yourself in another culture with new artists and live and work with a variety of creatives doing the same thing. The full days and weeks of opportunity to work, explore, go to museums, challenge yourself is perfect. The final 'exhibition' at AIR Vallauris provided a good focus, but came up quickly and was challenging to move into 'presenting' mode. Challenges: It's always hard to work in a new studio with equipment you do not know, clay & glazes unfamiliar to you and an environment that is new. The infusion of "unknown" can either push you to growth - or make you anxious. I go into circumstances like that with an open mind to receive what I get, not necessarily what I think I should get. That ability to 'let go' allows me to dive deeply and be present to both my own state of mind, creative in and output and to receive others around me the same way.

I had a fantastic experience during my artist residency in CDMX. The program was thoughtfully organized and perfectly located, offering easy access to the city's vibrant cultural scene. I learned so much during my time there—both through my work and the inspiring community of artists and organizers. It was a deeply rewarding and creatively enriching experience.

I've recently returned from a month-long stay (Sept 2025) as part of MADE's program in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Located in a true neighborhood, as opposed to being in an isolated expat community, it is close to markets, laundromats, cafes, and a weekly farmers market. It is a good, easy walk to the central part of town, too, and I loved walking the cobblestone streets to explore, which is the theme of this residency. Yesica, the founder of MADE, makes each resident feel welcome and supported, and is there to guide you with anything you need—selection of classes at the amazing local art institutions, what neighborhoods and food places to explore, and shares about all of that month's local cultural celebrations to be able to witness. Yesica shares that this residency is more about the time and space to create, but also to try an art form outside of your regular practice, and to immerse yourself in the people and place of SMA. It is not a typical "hole yourself away and create in your room," yet you can structure your time to your desired experience. I loved being able to connect with the other artists there, to commune over cooking in our communal kitchen, to even collaborate on a shared art piece. Yesica was always there if we wanted to talk about art or future goals, and again for guidance on things we could experience while in SMA. I hope to return one day again to MADE, which really was a positive, transformational experience for me.

MADE Creatives was a magical, mind-blowing experience, thanks to Yesica, the director. I am incredibly grateful to Yesica for her exquisite knowledge, generosity, enthusiasm, and wisdom in guiding me through the residency and through the various communities of San Miguel. I came here not really knowing what to expect. Through the sights, smells, sounds, and touch of the city, my new work developed. I deeply appreciate that MADE offered time and space to move into the research and let things marinate as long as necessary. Being in a new environment where culture is valued, accessible, and integrated into LIFE is a revelation. Being with other creative minds – 3 other artists in residence – was generative and inspiring. I loved hearing and learning about their interests and sharing so many new things together. The work was made possible by the contributions of many people and experiences I met and had here. These introductions were made possible by our fearless La Jefa, Yesica.

MADE was my first artist residency experience. I wasn't sure what to expect. After submitting my application, I had a phone conversation with Yesica. I reviewed the residency contract and prepared a list of questions for her. She answered the questions, and I was confident that I had a good idea of what was expected from residents as well as from MADE. Yesica made the arrangements for the classes I selected. There was a glitch in one class selection, but Yesica quickly found an alternative that turned out to be the print making class I wanted. She came to the classes periodically to make sure everything was going ok. The residency is located in a neighborhood. I appreciated the experience of living with Mexican people. The roosters did crow, but I had my earplugs! My apartment was clean, and linen was changed mid-month. I read this in the application, so it wasn't a surprise. MADE is not a hotel or AirB&B. I had to do some cleaning, purchase/cook my own food, make up my bed, etc. I came to MADE for an opportunity to enhance my artistic education but also to learn about another culture. Weekly, the residents gather to have dinner and talk about our experiences and ourselves. We were a diverse group of 5. We were from all over the United States. The ages ranged from 30s to 70+. We also attended several festivals and excursions in and around San Miguel. This trip was life changing for me. Artistically, I exploded. I found the art vibe to be very strong. I was turning out collages with an intensity I didn't know I possessed as well as completing a book. Yesica created an atmosphere that gave us an opportunity to get to know each other as well as delve deeper into our own artistic endeavors. I would definitely go back to MADE again.

I stayed at Made in San Miguel during the month of March and was introduced to jewelry making. One of the best experiences in my life. I got to be immersed in the culture by living around the local community, tasting local food. Let's talk about having someone who personally showed you places that's not toursy. I remember after one week I felt like a local, the way I moved around San Miguel. My instructor was the best, 40 years in the business. If you get the invite to stay at Made Creative, go with an open heart and mind and your life could change.

What’s most positive about this residency is the generous amount of time awarded the resident artists, privacy, location, and the freedom to choose whether to produce or just use the time to not do anything at all and just relax. Having so much privacy in one’s own studio and casita are also one of the greatest benefits in this residency. At the same time, having that privacy, along with the generous amount of time, I feel that these provided the ingredients to cultivate very meaningful connections with my fellow residents who have become my friends to this day. And the staff are simply wonderful and supportive. A possible practical hurdle that some may consider: to appreciate the residency fully, I highly recommend that one has a vehicle because some of the most beautiful and enchanting parts of the southwest (in fact the whole of US!) are driving distance from the residency. Fortunately the residency provides bicycles—a fantastic way to explore the beautiful nearby areas of Taos, such as downtown, museums, nearby hikes, and more. I highly recommend the Helene Wurlitzer Foundation as a residency, and I am forever grateful to the foundation to the most precious gift of time, space, serenity and connections that I received.

From day one, it was awful. One of the founders let his friends sleep in the sound studio, studio we were sharing and I was paying for. My expensive equipment was left with strangers and they consider the sound studio as their bedroom. I was pressured and yelled at when I refused, and the founder of wonder even stole some of my material for work. They promised to help us with an event, then canceled all funding and demanded a lot more money. It was a mental scam—exploiting, stealing, and manipulative with no transparency. I would not recommend this place to anyone.

I visited Villa Capri over the last 2 years several times and can highly recommend it. Every stay was very magical, and I met and connected through the residencies with so many beautiful and interesting people: local artists from Mallorca and Barcelona as well as international artists. Every time I left, I felt nourished and recharged and was able to develop new ideas and try out different artistic experiments. The house is an old farmhouse with a beautiful pool, and in the garden is a dream for every forager—so many edible plants that one can cook with every day. Over the years, I tried out many different recipes, for instance: nopal lemonade, nettle soup, wild mustard pesto, wild asparagus salad. It is well located in the middle of the island, so one can easily explore it with the car. The sunsets in this rural part of Mallorca are stunning, and quite often there are sheep grazing on the territory, which creates a beautiful soundscape and a very idyllic vibe, especially in the morning or golden hour. Lorena is a very calm, intelligent, and special person; she doesn't try to push one into a certain structure but lets the structure emerge in the process of the group. I never had a bad experience there, apart from the time the previous reviewer was present. Unfortunately, she was disappointed because she expected something else and wanted every other resident to suffer with her. Every day she was shouting (maybe as well mental health problems) and created an uncomfortable time for the other people in order to pressure Lorena to refund her. That was very ugly, selfish, and mean of her, and everyone was happy when she finally left. If you are looking for a luxury resort with workshops that you just need to attend, then you should go somewhere else. The experience in this residency is more empowering and participatory; the residents organize themselves the workshops and plan excursions together. Like this, one can peek into other disciplines and get to know some magical spots on that beautiful island, like secret beaches, limestone caves, mountain trails, sustainable projects, and inspiring art exhibitions.

🚩 CERAMICISTS BEWARE 🚩 The Taos Ceramics Center offers accommodation behind their studio for two residents, including 24/7 access to the community studio and a shared private studio on the grounds in exchange for rent, which they claim is "below market rate" (it is just the average cost for the area) and a work trade to "make up the difference" of the "low" rent--I thought this would be something I could overlook when I started, and it might have been if the owners were not constantly demanding more and more work and criticizing the work I had done. I mention the costs because they were constantly brought up by the owners who clearly felt I "owed" them--even though I was paying them for everything and working for free. I came in as a competent, experienced ceramics instructor and studio tech and left so disheartened and exhausted that I haven't touched clay since. Pros: - Beautiful small town with a rich, thriving arts culture and stunning surroundings - Accommodation was a nice little house with private studio - Fun workshops in the summer for no extra cost - Very clean workspace Cons: - 24/7 psychological warfare: MICROMANAGING, gaslighting, myriad rules, texting and emailing about work at all hours - Owners frequently entering the house without notice!! - NO financial benefit: average rent, unpaid labor, barely quantifiable "discount" on clay/supplies, exorbitant firing fees - Incompetent firings producing firing flaws galore that are blamed on the makers - No professional development support i.e. critiques, networking, marketing, audience - Studio cleanliness is the responsibility of the residents and is CONSTANTLY under a microscope - Very small community studio in a very rural/isolated town with mostly retirees--not necessarily a bad thing but it's hard to meet other young people and make friends so it can be lonely! A past member told me they overheard the TCC board meeting to plan their residency program went along the lines of "we need to find some young people who will come here and be so grateful for the opportunity that they'll work for free!" and that's exactly what they're doing. Another member left because one of the owners screamed at them in public for asking about the private studio pricing ($500+/mo for a 10x10'ish space with no door) and I was also screamed at after asking about a firing. As I've already said, I had years of experience working cleaning jobs, working in ceramics, and did not expect to be waited on hand and foot but I was treated so consistently badly by the owners/managers that I had to call a crisis hotline after one shift and my hair started falling out. This "residency program" is nothing more than an ego-driven, exploitative scam that follows the pattern of an abusive relationship: lovebombing, followed by little by little undermining, into outright verbal abuse, all the while trying to make you feel indebted and unable to leave.

Such a great experience overall. A perfect balance of days in the peaceful garden setting to work and reflect with excursions into Mexico City to feast on the wealth of art, culture and history. While we were not right in the center of the gallery scene, I loved the south of the city where there is plenty to see including the fantastic contemporary art museum at UNAM, the Luis Barragan buildings in Tlalpan and Jardines de Pedregal, and the zocalito in Tlalpan is delightful.

🚨 My Nightmare Artist Residency in Mallorca — A Cautionary Tale 🚨 Hey fellow artists and travelers, I’m writing this to warn others and maybe get some advice. Earlier this year, I applied to what was supposed to be an artist residency in Mallorca, Spain — Villa Capri. The photos, Instagram posts, and even a feature in Vogue Spain made it look like an idyllic, supportive creative retreat. The reality? A total scam. • No program at all: despite promising guided workshops and artistic support, there was nothing. • The kitchen? A literal petri dish of flies and sticky surfaces, plus a fridge growing new life forms. • The pool? Not just empty — stagnant water that looked like a frog rave from 2007. • The “studio”? A dusty garage with broken furniture. • The garden? AI-generated in photos, just dry dirt and weeds in real life. • She even admitted it was dirty and was surprised I trusted her social media and the Vogue feature. • Money-wise? I paid triple what I expected (car rental, extra luggage for materials, etc.). She refunded one participant whose parents are lawyers, but refused to refund me. • Now the website is down — a clear sign that she knows what she’s doing is shady. The final straw? When confronted with the fact that she used a year-old Vogue Spain article to sell the residency, she said she wasn’t responsible for what Vogue wrote — even though she used it as marketing. 🙃 If you’re considering an artist residency, please do your homework. If hygiene, structure, and basic respect for artists matter to you, avoid this place at all costs. Has anyone else had a similar experience — or any ideas on where to escalate this further? I’ve already emailed local tourism boards, cultural authorities, and even Vogue Spain. Stay safe and protect your art (and your immune system). ⸻ Flair it as: 🛑 Scam / ⚠️ Bad Experience / 🎨 Art Residency