ACA Programs Snapshot
ACA offers a range of program types throughout the year—here’s a look at our offerings this season.
Affinity Groups + Regional Meet-Ups
Peer gatherings designed to spark new connections, mutual support, and shared problem-solving. These groups bring together residency practitioners connected by region, programmatic focus, or organizational role. Interested in starting an affinity group? Reach out to members@artistcommunities.org.
#ResidenciesConnect
Peer networking sessions organized around timely themes and shared challenges. Each gathering begins with a strategy share from field leaders, followed by facilitated, active discussion with colleagues from across the network.
Wisdom Wells
Focused, practical breakouts led by field experts, centered on on sustaining healthy residency programs. Bring your specific questions, exchange tools with fellow practitioners, and expand your professional circle.
Stay tuned for details about our content-forward trainings and cohort experiences, including Equitable Capacity Workshops and the 2026 Emerging Program Institute.
Upcoming Programs + Events
Rural + Small Town Residencies Affinity Group
Thursday, March 5, 2026 | 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET
This new affinity group brings together staff of rural + small town residencies. What started as a conversation at ACA's 2025 Conference is now an ongoing dialogue. Open to any residency operating in a rural or small-town setting.
Facilitated by John Kern, Kelly Donohaugh, and Chantal Harris
Executive Leadership Affinity Group
Thursday, March 12, 2026 | 2:00–3:15 p.m. ET
Direct and open conversations on the challenges, questions, and opportunities field leadership are navigating. Open to the Executive Leadership of our member programs—including artistic, residency, program, or executive directors. Executive Leadership will be contacted directly—email members@artistcommunities.org with any questions.
Facilitated by Toccarra Thomas (SFAI) and Alana Hernandez (ASU Art Museum)
Member Orientation + Networking
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 1:00–2:00 p.m. ET
Whether you're brand new or just need a refresher, get the most out of your ACA Network benefits and meet fellow members as part of this monthly orientation. Open to staff of ACA member organizations.
Facilitated by ACA Membership
#ResidenciesConnect – Artist Residency Wellness: Caring for Artists
Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Residencies are places of growth, experimentation, and connection—but they can also bring challenges around balance, care, and expectations. In this open conversation, residency managers discuss support for the well-being of visiting artists and the staff who care for them. The session will unearth practical strategies residencies are using to cultivate healthy, sustainable residency environments and tools for responding in moments of crisis.
Facilitated by Deanna Miera (Ragdale), Carolina Porras Monroy (Studios MASS MoCA), and Trécha Gay Jheneall (Joan Mitchell Center)