Organizer Information
Camino al Arte is a creative residency and cultural hub located in Atotonilco, Mexico, dedicated to supporting writers, artists, and interdisciplinary creators seeking space, inspiration, and authentic community engagement. The organization focuses on cultural exchange, slow, intentional creative practice, and fostering deep connections between residents and the surrounding community. Their mission is rooted in creating an environment where artists can explore, reflect, and grow at their own pace while benefiting from the rich cultural landscape of the region. The residency is housed at Casa Camino, a creative retreat designed to offer privacy, artistic resources, and support from local cultural leaders and practitioners.
Title & Description
Camino Al Arte Open Residency 2026
This open residency invites writers, artists, and creatives to join a self-guided program set in an authentic Mexican community. This is not a structured program but a flexible, supportive environment where creators set their own pace. Residents can stay from 2 to 8 weeks between January 11 and May 3, 2026, immersing themselves in Atotonilco’s cultural richness while having access to private studios, workshop tools, curatorial support, and opportunities for community engagement. The residency emphasises creativity, dialogue, reflection, and cultural immersion as key components of artistic growth.
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Writing & Literature
- Mixed Media
- Photography
- Printmaking
- Craft & Design
- Performance / Movement (dance & fitness facilities available)
- Interdisciplinary Practices
- Community-engaged Art
Eligibility
- Open to international artists, writers, and creatives of all disciplines.
- No age restrictions mentioned.
- Solo practitioners, parents, and artists traveling with partners or pets may apply (details provided on request).
- Residents staying 3 weeks or longer are encouraged to participate in community engagement activities.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Private accommodations: Bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette
- Private 40 m² studio with natural light
- Homemade Mexican breakfast + portable weekday lunch
- Basic provisions for independent meals
- Communal dining and reading areas
- Access to assembly workshop, essential tools, printmaking studio
- Free or low-cost access to wood, metal, dance, and fitness facilities
- Curatorial support, peer dialogue, and introductions to local cultural leaders
- Optional community engagement opportunities
- Shared vehicle available (gas at resident’s cost)
- Close proximity to San Miguel de Allende (15 minutes away)
Application Fee
Program participation cost: $1,000 USD per week.
Application Requirements
- Cover letter/email with preferred residency dates
- Updated CV
- Portfolio in PDF (max 10 pages) with short project descriptions
- For music, video, or digital art: send files via Google Drive or Dropbox
- If the portfolio is online, a link is sufficient
How to Apply?
Send all application materials by email to: info@caminoalarte.org
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 12 December 2025
- Participant Announcement: 19 December 2025
- Residency Period: January 11 – May 3, 2026 (artists choose 2–8 week slots)
Location
Atotonilco, Mexico
Additional Details
- Only two full-time resident artists/writers stay at a time.
- Residents staying 3+ weeks may lead workshops, community projects, or talks.
- Visitors, children, and pets are welcome upon prior arrangement.
- Selection is made by representatives from the local art community.