Open Call-C.R.E.A.T.E in Costa Rica
At C.R.E.A.T.E. — Costa Rica Eco Artist Tribe Experience — artists are invited to slow down, reconnect with nature, and expand their creative practice within a supportive international community. Our residency blends art, sustainability, wellness, and adventure in a unique retreat setting designed to nourish the mind, body, and spirit.
Surrounded by mountains, jungle, and endless natural beauty, artists have the opportunity to fully focus on their work while experiencing the magic and tranquility of Costa Rica.
Your stay includes nourishing meals, airport transportation, weekly excursions, studio space immersed in nature, community connection, and much more.
The residency is based in a luxurious 6,000 sq. ft. Spanish-style villa situated on 3 acres of lush tropical land in the mountains near Parrita, Costa Rica. The property features food forests, gardens, a greenhouse, walking trails, and breathtaking jungle views. Artists enjoy spacious accommodations, inspiring work areas, and peaceful surroundings ideal for both individual and collaborative projects.
The residency is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Toucans, scarlet macaws, monkeys, sloths, and coatis are frequently seen passing through the property, while a serene stream flows through the lower half of the land.
Meals are thoughtfully prepared using fresh fruits, herbs, and vegetables harvested directly from our gardens, greenhouse, and food forests whenever possible.
Artists also enjoy weekly adventures to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful destinations, including Manuel Antonio National Park, Rainmaker Conservation Park, Iguana Chocolate Cacao Farm, waterfalls, beaches, and other local attractions.
Beyond the residency itself, artists have the opportunity to engage with meaningful community-based projects in the nearby beach town of Esterillos Oeste. Optional programming includes participation in our Open Air Art Walk and mural projects, teaching art workshops at the local elementary school, and joining our monthly artisan market "El Mercadito de Esterillos Oeste" where artists can exhibit, live paint, connect with the community, and sell their work.
Whether you are seeking inspiration, creative expansion, cultural exchange, or time to reconnect with yourself and your art practice, C.R.E.A.T.E. offers a truly transformational experience unlike any other.
Apply now and become part of our growing global community of artists, nature lovers, and changemakers.
The Phoenix and Zenith Grants are available for the month of October
(Both include a space in the shared room and participation in the Residency Program)
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
We’ve kept the application simple.
Your application should include:
• A SHORT BIO:
Tell us who you are and what you create
• A FEW WORDS ABOUT YOUR WORK:
What inspires you? What are you currently exploring?
• WHY YOU'D LIKE TO JOIN THE RESIDENCY:
What’s calling you here?
• WHAT YOU'D LIKE TO CREATE DURING YOUR STAY:
No pressure, just share any ideas you feel excited about.
• YOUR PORTFOLIO:
Images, links, or anything that represents your work.
• LINKS:
Website, Instagram, or anywhere we can see more of your work.
Apply here: https://www.mauserfoundation.org/apply-2026
Upon receiving your letter of acceptance, artists must complete, sign, and submit the following within 7 days of receipt:
- Liability form
- House Etiquette Agreement
- A non-refundable deposit of 50% to be applied towards the total cost of the residency.
Residency Includes
- Delicious daily breakfast and gourmet vegetarian dinners (Monday–Friday) featuring fresh, local, and organic ingredients
- 1–2 weekly excursions with transportation and entrance fees included (Manuel Antonio National Park, cacao farms, waterfalls, mangrove tours, beaches, and more)
- Inspiring studio space overlooking the lush Costa Rican jungle
- Fully equipped communal kitchen
- High-speed Starlink Wi-Fi and basic utilities
- Weekly housekeeping, laundry service, fresh linens, and towels
- Airport transportation on arrival and departure days (1st and last day of the month)
- Opportunities for community engagement through artist presentations, potluck dinners, open studios, optional mural projects, and volunteering at the local elementary school, a space to promote and sell your work at our local Artesian Market "El Mercadito de Esterillos Oeste".
Accommodation Options
Shared Room
Extra-large single beds with pillow-top mattresses and a large en suite bathroom with jacuzzi tub/shower shared with up to 4 artists.
$2,399 USD per person / month
Private Suite
Private room with double bed, en suite bathroom, and workspace. Single occupancy only.
$3,499 USD / month
Deluxe Suite
King-size canopy bed, en suite bathroom, and attached private studio space (21’ x 14’).
Single Occupancy: $4,350 USD / month
Couples: $6,749 USD / month
We offer 2 Artists Grants for the month of October.
The Phoenix Grant
Awarded annually to an emerging artist at any discipline in financial need. Members of underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Zenith Grant
Awarded annually to an artist with a focus on eco/sustainability. The discipline for 2026 is Photographers.
Each includes:
Residency Program and accommodation in a shared room for a one-month stay during the month of October.
Applications are accepted January through May 31st. The grantees will be notified by June 19th and must be able to attend during the month of October within the same calendar year.
To apply for either grant: