About

Salem Art Works encourages the exploration of new media, collaboration, and place-making. This belief extends to every residency program offered and informs all aspects of life at SAW.

Artists of all ages, backgrounds, and career stages--working in any mode or medium--may apply.

SAW offers a variety of residencies: full scholarships, subsidized, and self-funded artist residencies.

Studio Artist Residency—In exchange for a 30-hour per week work exchange in blacksmithing, glass, ceramics, welding, foundry, and arts admin, emerging artists receive lodging, board, studio, and facility access.

Young Artist Residency—In exchange for a 30-hour per week work exchange, Young Artists will gain experience in an area of focus with access to all of SAW’s facilities to develop one’s artistic career through presenting work, documenting, and talking about your work.

ISC @ SAW—This unique opportunity invites sculptors from around the world to participate in a collaborative endeavor, where they will collectively create two captivating sculptures—one to be installed at Salem Art Works and the other at The International Sculpture Center. Artists pay for travel and receive room, board, studio, facility, and a $2000 honorarium.

Family Residency—Families whose teens are participating in Salem Teen Arts for 1 week or 2 weeks receive subsidized housing on campus. Artists may use SAW’s available facilities and spaces.

salem2salem Artist Exchange Residency—Artists are nominated (from the USA and Germany) to participate in this special international artist exchange between Salem Art Works and the Bodenseekreis. Artists attend two residencies, one session in the USA and one session in Germany. Artists pay for travel and receive room, board, studio, facility, and a $200 honorarium.

Independent Artist Residency—This ‘build your own residency’ opportunity supports individuals and groups seeking space to create, share, and promote their art practice.

Ceramic Artist Residency—SAW offers a variety of kilns for individuals and groups to rent. Kiln firings are available on a first come, first serve basis, between April and November.

SAW Fellowship, Studio Artist, and Young Artist residencies are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.