Organizer Information
Sea Breeze Artist Residency is based on Block Island, Rhode Island, and was founded in 2023 to honor Mary Newhouse, a devoted advocate for the arts and the island’s natural beauty. The residency provides an inspiring, tranquil setting for both writers and visual artists, fostering focused creative work while encouraging community engagement. Residents benefit from uninterrupted studio or writing time in a supportive and culturally rich environment.
Title & Description
Sea Breeze Artist Residency 2026 – Block Island, Rhode Island
The residency offers a ten-day immersive experience for writers and visual artists during two annual sessions (Spring: April 30–May 10; Fall: October 13–22). Participants receive private accommodations, studio or writing space, meals, and a small stipend. Artists explore Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Photography, and Mixed Media, while writers focus on Poetry, Fiction, Non-fiction, Playwriting, or Graphic writing. The program emphasizes independent creative practice, connection with other residents, and engagement with the Block Island community through workshops, open studios, and talks.
Categories
Visual Arts, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Mixed Media, Literature, Poetry, Fiction, Non-fiction, Playwriting, Graphic Writing
Eligibility
- International applicants welcome.
- Emerging and established writers and visual artists may apply.
- Ability to attend a full ten-day session is required.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Private guest room with private bathroom.
- Studio space for visual artists; choice of workspace at Sea Breeze or Island Free Library for writers.
- Breakfast and light lunch daily.
- Bicycle with helmet and lock.
- Small stipend to support living expenses.
- Participation in community programs (workshop for local students, open studios, group talks).
Application Fee
One-time non-refundable $35 application fee.
Application Requirements
Visual Artists:
- Up to 8 JPEG images of recent works (last 4 years), with title, year, medium, dimensions.
- One-page statement (12 pt font) describing focus and creative goals.
- One-page biography including education, experience, and accomplishments.
- Optional link to website or social media.
Writers:
- Work sample (max 10 pages, double-spaced, 12 pt font; Poetry, Fiction, Non-fiction, Playwriting, Graphic).
- One-page statement describing planned focus and context.
- One-page biography including education, experience, and accomplishments.
- Optional link to website or social media.
How to Apply?
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 8 March 2026
- Spring Session: April 30 – May 10, 2026
- Fall Session: October 13 – 22, 2026
- Notification: Early April 2026
Location
Block Island, Rhode Island, United States
Additional Details
- Residents are responsible for travel to Block Island (ferry or flight).
- Expect coastal weather; bring warm, waterproof clothing and layered apparel.
- Meals outside, provided breakfast and lunch, are self-arranged.