The Nicholson Project is an artist residency program coupled with a neighborhood garden that works to support artists and serve as a creative and innovative cultural hub. We aim to become a community anchor that celebrates the community’s authentic identity while infusing new vibrancy into Southeast DC. Our Residency Program provides the time, space, and support needed for artists to work on their studio practice and produce onsite activations.
The Nicholson Project was founded in with a deep commitment to providing artists with space and support to create and further their practice. We want you to feel 100% supported during your time at Nicholson and beyond. As part of your acceptance, you will receive the following:
- Six-eight months of shared studio space at The Nicholson Project (2310 Nicholson St. SE)
- $2,000 artist stipend
- Time and space to create
- Shared studio space (approximately 200 sq. ft. within a ~400 sq. ft. studio) with 24/7 access. A second artist will be using the other half of this studio.
- One-on-one support from staff
- Studio visits and introductions to artists, curators, and professionals throughout your residency as they relate to your practice
- Promotional support (press releases for residency, social media promotion, etc.)
- Professional headshots
- Culminating exhibition including a $1,000 exhibition stipend, exhibition design and installation support, documentation, and public programming (opening reception, artist talk, etc)
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
WHAT’S EXPECTED OF ME AS A RESIDENT?
- One open studio tour that is open to the public.
- One artist talk: in-person or virtual (Zoom, IG Live, etc)
- Monthly studio visits with TNP staff and guest curators; sharing in-progress artwork and allowing some photos and/or videos that we can share on our social media, newsletter, etc.
- There may be one or two additional activities we would like you to participate in, such as a small community dinner or reception. We will always let you know about these in advance.
- While you’re with us, there may be additional community dinners and other programs at The Nicholson Project that you are welcome to join but are not mandatory.
WHO CAN APPLY?
In-House Residency: We welcome local, national, and international emerging, mid-career, and established artists.
Local Artist Studio Residency: This residency is for local artists who do not need living space. We give priority to DC artists first, followed by artists from the surrounding DC/DMV region, as long as they can commit to utilizing the studio space on a frequent basis.
Past residents have included filmmakers, mixed media artists, musicians, painters, photographers, poets, performance artists, printmakers, sculptors, textile artists, and social practice artists, among others.
Applications are evaluated based on innovative and impactful concepts and practice, mastery of form and craftsmanship, how the program will benefit the artist’s growth, and their connection to Washington, DC and Southeast DC in particular.
HOW DO I APPLY?
We use Slideroom to receive and review applications. It is free to make an account. There is a $15 non-refundable application fee. CLICK HERE to apply.
WHEN CAN I APPLY?
Applications for 2027 residencies open on April 14, 2026. The deadline to apply is May 21, 2026. Check back to this page or sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date on The Nicholson Project’s activities.
WHEN WILL MY RESIDENCY BE?
In-House Residency: Each residency is 10 weeks, with the first session typically beginning mid to late January. Applicants are asked to indicate which periods they are available.
Local Artist Studio Residency: Each residency runs for six to eight months, with start date typically in February. Staff will work with selected artists to confirm final dates.
WHEN ARE APPLICATIONS DUE?
Applications for 2027 residencies close on May 21, 2026, at 11:59 pm.
NOTIFICATION?
Notifications for the 2027 application cycle will be sent out by August 21, 2026. Please do not email staff asking about notifications before this date.
WHO CHOOSES THE RESIDENTS?
Residents are chosen by a selection committee, including Nicholson staff plus outside community members, stakeholders, curators, Nicholson residency alumni, and artists actively working in the arts community. This years panelists include Abbey Alison McClain, Shaunté Gates, and Oshun Layne.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the studios like?
Local Artist Studio Residency: The LASR studio is located in a newly renovated building, behind to the main residency house. This former garage workshop is nestled within our 15-bed organic garden and connects to a second property which we are currently renovating into affordable artist studios. The 420 sq. ft. studio is be split between two artist, furnished with large work tables and chairs, shelving, and slop sink. Attached is a kitchen and restroom.
What’s expected of me as a resident?
- One studio tour that is open to the public.
- One artist talk: in-person or virtual
- Regular studio visits and check-ins with our staff and guest curators; sharing in-progress artwork and allowing some photos and/or videos that we can share on our social media, newsletter, etc.
- There may be one or two additional activities we would like you to participate in, such as a small community dinner or reception. We will always let you know about these in advance.
- While you’re with us, there may be additional community dinners and other programs at The Nicholson Project that you are welcome to join but are not mandatory.
What are the fees?
None. Residents are responsible for their own transportation to and from The Nicholson Project, and throughout their residency.
How long are residencies? Is there flexibility around scheduling?
In-House Residency: Residencies are 10 weeks long and we have four residencies per year. While there is sometimes flexibility on start and end date of your residency, we do have set time frames we typically follow in order to fit in four residencies annually.
Local Artist Studio Residency: Residencies are 6 to 8 months long and we have 2 residents per year. Residencies begin in February and we will work together to find the exact start and end dates for your time with us.
Can In-House Residents travel while in residence? Can I work on other projects or be in exhibitions?
We get that taking two and a half months out of your life may be difficult. If you need to travel for an exhibition or pertinent obligations while you’re completing your residency, just let us know. Residents are expected to be present at least 75% of the time during their ten-week residency. Our biggest goal is to have a positive impact on you, on your practice, and on our community. How can we best set up your time here to do that? Communication is key.
Can In-House Residents apply with a collaborator?
Sure, as long as you can work in the same studio, and keep in mind we only have one bedroom (with one queen bed). We would need you to let us know when and how long your collaborator is coming for. If you’re applying with a collaborator, you need to mention this in your application. The artist stipend remains the same with or without a collaborator.
Is there a privacy policy?
Privacy & solitude is a key focus of ours. For In-House Residents, one of our requirements is that no one may visit your studio without being specifically invited by you to do so. If we need you or nee access to the Residency Suite, we’ll call, text, or email you first. For the Local Artist Studio Residency, while still mostly private, this is a shared studio space with another artist, and it is attached to utility kitchen and storage that is used by Nicholson staff, primarily for our Garden.
Are meals served?
No. For the In-House Residency, however, the studio space includes a full, a kitchenette with a cooktop, micro/oven combo, full refrigerator, and sink with disposal in your residence. In season, The Nicholson Project runs a large neighborhood garden. Residents are encouraged to be involved and share in the produce, depending on the time of year you are in residence.
Is there somewhere I can do my laundry?
For In-House Residents only, there is a washer and dryer available on site for use anytime, free of charge.
Are there any safety concerns?
No, but be aware that you are in a residential neighborhood in a bustling city. You will need to use common sense and your own discretion.