Westerly Library & Wilcox Park AIR at The Cottage
Westerly, RI is a growing arts community. There are already a number of anchors in Westerly to support the arts including the United, Knickerbocker, the Artists’ Cooperative Gallery of Westerly, the Chorus of Westerly, the Hoxie Gallery at Westerly Library, Colonial Theatre, Granite Theatre, and increasing awareness and appreciation of the arts.
In the heart of downtown Westerly and part of the arts community, Westerly Library and Wilcox Park believes the Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program further nurtures our arts community through cooperative support and education; it will provide artists an opportunity to work on and share their art, and encourage creativity and artistry in all community members and visitors.
Westerly Library & Wilcox Park's AIR program is designed to encourage the creative, intellectual and personal growth of emerging and established artists. It is expected that artists have sufficient skills and experience to work independently in their studio area. The residency is designed to allow artists to take risks and pursue new projects and ideas, free from everyday pressures.
The Artist-in-Residence (AIR) also expands Westerly Library and Wilcox Park’s impact on local art and culture, offers public engagement, promotes community connections, and provides creative and educational opportunities for the community while supporting cultural and artistic exchange.
44 Broad Street
Westerly, RI 02891
United States
Residency Program Information
Residency Program Summary
Application Information
A stipend is provided based upon the duration of the residency.
- $1500 stipend for 8-week residency
- $1125 stipend for a 6-week residency
- $750 stipend for 4-week residency
- $375 stipend for a 2-week residency
Residency Fees/Expenses
- Half of the stipend will be provided when the artist arrives on site and half will be provided at the conclusion of the residency provided all agreed upon program requirements have been met.
- Should there be a need to pay for repairs to The Cottage, residents will be provided with an itemized expense list which may be deducted from the remainder of their stipend.
- Should the residency/stay be in collaboration with a partner organization, the above stipend may not be apply.
- Artists are responsible for their own personal living expenses, supplies, and any other related cost of producing work that may be incurred while in the program.
- Travel and shipping expenses to and from Westerly Library and Wilcox Park are the responsibility of the artist.
Accessibility
The Cottage is accessible to those with mobility issues by way of a pathway and ramp. The first level is set up to act as living and studio space as needed otherwise the space acts as a living room and gallery/event space. An ADA compliant full bathroom is located on the first level.
Our organization's website, forms, and information follows WCAG 2.0 AA guidelines.
Some of the studio space tools are not able to be relocated from our second floor studio to the modified first floor space. However, we will work with the artist based on their needs to provide the tools and equipment they need as best we can.
The second floor which contains the main studio and bedroom. Design of the facility enables the first level to act as bedroom and studio space as needed.
Housing & Accomodation
Studio & Facilities
The Cottage studio itself has limited offerings for art creation however, the library (on campus) contains a workshop and makerspace. Various community partnerships with other arts organizations, businesses, and schools can provide a wide range of tools and equipment for artists all within walking distance of The Cottage. Inquiries regarding specific tools and equipment are welcome.