Artist in Residence FAQ’s

What is the Hotel Willa Artist-in-Residence Program?

The Hotel Willa AIR is a four-week residency hosted on-site at Hotel Willa and activated by The Paseo Project. The program provides artists with dedicated time and space to develop new work in Taos, New Mexico, while connecting with the region’s vibrant creative community. Residents live and work within an active hotel environment, sharing the grounds with guests while being the sole artist in residence at any given time; the program is intentionally designed as a self-guided, independent residency.

Who can apply?

The residency is open to artists of all disciplines—including visual arts, performance, installation, writing, sound, design, and interdisciplinary practices. Emerging, mid-career, and established artists are welcome. The residency is intended for artists living outside Taos County; local artists interested in residency opportunities are encouraged to apply instead to our Taos-to-Vermont Artist Exchange Program.

When is the next open call?

The Paseo Project releases an open call annually. Dates and details will be announced on our website, social media channels, and newsletter. Stay tuned for the next application cycle.

How does the selection process work?

All applications are reviewed through a juried process by The Paseo Project and invited guest jurors. Artists are selected based on artistic merit, clarity of practice, and alignment with the program’s goals.

What does the residency provide?

Residents receive housing on-site at Hotel Willa, access to a dedicated studio, and support from The Paseo Project team. The program is designed to offer uninterrupted time for creative development in an inspiring environment. Residents are housed in a private Artist Suite that includes a king-sized bed and a small kitchenette equipped with a hot plate, refrigerator, coffee maker, toaster oven, and basic cooking utensils. Artists are responsible for preparing their own meals, and a full supermarket is conveniently located next door to the hotel.

Are artists required to produce a final exhibition?

A final exhibition is not required. However, residents may choose to engage the community through an open studio or talk in alignment with The Paseo Project’s community-driven mission.

Is there a stipend?

No stipend is offered for the Hotel Willa Artist in Residence Program.

What are the expectations of residents?

Artists are expected to spend the majority of their residency on-site, engage respectfully with the Hotel Willa community, and maintain their workspace. Any public engagement activities are optional and collaboratively planned with The Paseo Project.

Can artists bring partners, pets, or collaborators?

Pets are not allowed. The residency is designed to provide focused time and space for the creative process, so partners or spouses may not accompany the artist. Short-term visitors are permitted for up to four days during the residency.

What is the studio space like?

The studio is a private workspace separate from the Artist Suite, located just a short walk away. It measures approximately 15' x 20' and features concrete floors, white walls, and about 20 linear feet of pin boards. The space offers generous natural light from a large north-facing window, along with 24-hour keyed access, high-speed internet, and an attached bathroom. It is equipped with two large work tables on sawhorses, a wood easel, a 4' x 5' cutting mat, two work lamps, a work sink, extension cords, power strips, and storage space. While some leftover materials from past residents are available, artists are strongly encouraged to bring their own supplies, as Taos is a small rural community with limited access to specialty art materials.

Is the residency accessible?

Yes. Hotel Willa and the Artist Suite are ADA-accessible, including ground-level access and ADA-compliant bathrooms. The private studio is also accessible, with ground-floor entry, wide doorways, and space for maneuvering. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions about accommodations, please reach out—The Paseo Project and Hotel Willa will do our best to support all artists in having a safe and productive residency experience.

Do I need a car?

A car is encouraged, as Taos is a rural community and many services, trailheads, and art resources are spread out across the region. However, the residency is located in downtown Taos with easy access to grocery stores, hardware stores, the post office, restaurants, cafés, galleries, and museums. For local errands and exploring nearby neighborhoods, a bike is provided for resident artists.

How do I apply?

Once the open call is live, the application link and submission guidelines will be posted on this page.