Peace Retreats 2026: A Time for renewal & Being
This residency is designed for writers, readers, and dreamers seeking a period of stillness and reflection. It is not a residency focused on "doing," but rather on "being."
There are no workshops, readings, or set schedules - other than Sunday suppers. Participants are not expected to engage in any activities beyond their own prior expressed interest -- time can be spent on personal renewal and reflection. Residents are encouraged to write, journal, read, meditate, and reflect. The core purpose is to embrace stillness and allow the unique spirit of New Orleans to inspire and uplift you.
Participants will be provided with private bedrooms and access to common spaces, including a parlor reading room and a writing porch.
2435 Esplanade Avenue
New Orleans , LA 70119
United States
Residency Program Information
Residency Program Summary
Application Information
- How long is the residency? The residency runs from a minimum of 1-7 days up to 14 days.
- What is the application deadline? The deadline is rolling. Accepted artists can confirm with administrators their preferred dates- confirmation is first come, first served. Once all spots have been filled, artists will be added to our wait list. Waitlist artists will be contacted in the order they applied if spots open up.
- If I’m accepted, what’s next? As soon as you’re approved for a spot and have completed the residency contract, you’ll choose your preferred dates from the availability calendar. We will send you a payment link to book your residency.
- How much is it?
A single resident's flat residency fee is $450 per week (artists can stay up to two weeks) for our standard room. - The residency fee only covers one artist in attendance at our program. Artists who decide to stay less than a week are still charged the full weekly fee. No discounts are given for stays less than one week.
- Why do you charge a fee? Funding for the arts is at an all time low. In the past, The New Quorum was able to cover the expenses to offer residencies with no cost to artists. There is no profit built into our flat residency fee. We decided to offer residencies below cost because we know how expensive traveling can be and want to be accommodating to people regardless of financial status. We must charge to cover costs to run the program.
- Do you offer any supplies? We provide linens, towels, daily breakfast, coffee & tea, snacks, wi-fi, bicycles, climate control and space to sleep/work. If you are in residence on a Sunday - you are welcome to participate in a Sunday Supper bringing together artists and cultural figures in the New Orleans community. Artists must bring all other desired supplies.
- Do you pay for travel expenses? We cannot cover travel expenses unfortunately.
- Where are you located? The New Quorum is located on one of the quietest, most scenic and most historic major thoroughfares in New Orleans – Esplanade Avenue, a hidden treasure running through the heart of the Crescent City. From its beginning at the foot of the Mississippi River levee to its terminus at the entrance to City Park, Esplanade is best seen at a slow pace. The French Quarter is a 20-minute walk or 10 minute bike ride away.
- Will there be anyone there to help with questions or provide assistance? Gianna Chachere, Founder and Executive Director of The New Quorum is available to answer any and all questions.
- Is there a full kitchen available? Yes, the New Quorum has a full kitchen.
- Is there laundry? Yes, there is a washing machine and a dryer.
- Other things to note? We aim to provide a quiet, peaceful and restorative residency period for our artists. Quiet hours will be in effect from 9 pm - 8 am. Loud music or excessive noise at any time of day is discouraged. We do not permit partying, excessive drinking or smoking (vaping, cigarettes, cannabis) on the premises. Physical violence or verbal assault/threats towards fellow residents or staff are not permitted and will result in immediate expulsion. All accepted artists will need to sign a residency agreement to this effect prior to attending.
- Are there any expectations of artists while at the residency? No, artists have complete control over their own time during the residency. There is no work requirement or any other obligations. If an artist is interested in interacting with the local artist community, please note on your application
- Is there an application fee? No!
- When is the deadline to apply? Spots are available until filled. We keep a waiting list in case of last minute cancellations.
- Can I cancel and receive a refund? Artists may cancel one month (30 days) or more prior to their residency and receive a full refund OR reschedule for a later available date.
- How do I pay? We accept VENMO, paypal and check payments only.
- Can I pay in installments? No, not at this time unfortunately.
- Is the residency accessible? We do not have any accessible rooms at this time. This is a situation we are actively working on.
- Can I bring my pet? Unfortunately we do not allow pets.
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I have more questions, how can I reach you? Please email gianna@newquorum with any questions.
A single resident's flat residency fee is $450 per week (artists can stay up to two weeks) for our standard room.
The residency fee only covers one artist in attendance at our program. Artists who decide to stay less than a week are still charged the full weekly fee. No discounts are given for stays less than one week.
Funding for the arts is at an all time low. In the past, The New Quorum was able to cover the expenses to offer residencies with no cost to artists. There is no profit built into our flat residency fee. We decided to offer residencies below cost because we know how expensive traveling can be and want to be accommodating to people regardless of financial status. We must charge to cover costs to run the program.
We provide linens, towels, daily breakfast, coffee & tea, snacks, wi-fi, bicycles, climate control and space to sleep/work. If you are in residence on a Sunday - you are welcome to participate in a Sunday Supper bringing together artists and cultural figures in the New Orleans community. Artists must bring all other desired supplies.
Accessibility
Housing & Accomodation
The New Quorum is a two-story mansion on historic Esplanade Avenue that embodies elegant New Orleans architecture with high ceilings, pocket doors, and a beautiful porch view of Esplanade Avenue. The property features five charming guest rooms and 3-1/2 bathrooms — two bathtubs/showers and one walk-in shower. The front porch is an ideal location for morning coffee or afternoon cocktails. The huge backyard with garden and porch features various seating for outdoor lounging. A screening room with digital projector/speakers is available for residents use at any time. Unfortunately is not accessible by wheelchair.
Studio & Facilities
Musicians, there is not a recording or formal studio at The New Quorum, and the residency is not designed to support recording an album. Residents are provided studio space at various locations, please inquire. Thus, the residency is limited to those who can bring their own equipment and materials.
Writers, a printer and paper are available for you, but you will need to bring your own computer.