Artist-in-Residence (AIR) Program

APPLICATION OPENING SOON FOR THE 2025 SEASON!

In line with the historic charm of the Isles of Shoals, selected artists are invited to spend a week on the island during the summer. Star Island offers a venue for them to showcase and sell their works in the lobby of the 19th-century Oceanic Hotel.

As part of the residency, artists are encouraged to share their time and talents in various ways with the community that values Star Island.

Artist Requirements 

Each artist collaborates with the Star Island staff to create a meaningful partnership with the conferences during their residency. In exchange for a two-week stay that includes room and board, the artist must fulfill the following requirements:

1. Install a small exhibition of 5-10 works in a designated space in the lobby of the 19th-century Oceanic Hotel. These artworks will be for sale, with 50% of the proceeds going to the Star Island Corporation.

2. Work closely with the Star Island staff to schedule one public event for conference attendees. This event could take the form of a workshop, art talk, lecture, or live demonstration. Additionally, the artist will host a separate one-evening art activity exclusively for the staff, referred to by tradition as “Pelicans.”

3. Hold daily “porch hours” of any duration, during which the artist will work on the hotel’s spacious front porch and engage with conference-goers and visitors.

4. At the end of the residency, remove any solvents, solvent-soaked rags, and similar materials from the island.

5. Donate a work or workshop (created on the island or elsewhere) to a Star Island Corporation fundraising event, such as the holiday auction.

Once these commitments are met, the artist in residence is free to explore and create around the island at their leisure.

The island’s Vaughn Cottage Museum Curator will assist artists by sharing the island’s collection of historical materials, art, and artifacts. Artists working in various mediums, including oil, acrylic, and watercolor painting—both indoors and outdoors (en plein air)—are welcome. The island’s Art Barn studio or other indoor spaces will be available as needed.

Please note: Please find more information about our COVID-19 policies here.

Apply Here