2020 Mary Olson Farm Artist in Residence

The Mary Olson Farm Artist in Residence is an annual program offering artists the opportunity to pursue their work in the unique setting of the Mary Olson Farm in Auburn, Washington. The residency lasts approximately two months during June and July.

The residency provides a $3,500 stipend (funds can be used toward art supplies, transportation, meals, etc.), a large historic barn studio space of approximately 450 sq. ft. on a 67-acre property, opportunities to tour and learn about the property and its six historic buildings, and an exhibition opportunity with reception and artist talk in Auburn. Selected artists must commit a minimum of ten hours per week for eight weeks creating work on-site, participate in two open-studio weekend afternoons for public viewing, lead one free public workshop, and participate in a final artist talk, reception, and exhibition. Artists provide their own supplies and transportation.

Eligibility is open to any individual artist or artist team in the Pacific Northwest working in two and three-dimensional media, including drawing, painting, photography, textiles, sculpture, installation, woodworking, and printmaking. Selection is based on artistic excellence, the strength and creativity of the residency proposal, and feasibility of creating innovative work during the residency. The selection process includes a jury of the City of Auburn Arts Coordinator, Mary Olson Farm and White River Valley Museum Director, at least one other City of Auburn staff person, and local artists or arts professionals. Finalists will be invited to interview on April 2, 2020 between 2-5 pm, with final selection by April 5, 2020. Applications must be submitted by 10:59 PM Pacific Time on March 19, 2020. Work samples should include 5-15 digital images demonstrating past work, with 10 images recommended for individual artists. Optional video submissions of up to 3 minutes each are also accepted.