2025 Mary Olson Farm Artist in Residence

The Mary Olson Farm Artist in Residence is a two-month residency taking place in June and July 2025. The selected artist will work in a large historic barn studio space (approximately 450 sq. ft.) on a 67-acre property and receive a $3,500 stipend. As Artist in Residence, the artist is responsible for leading free public programs including a community workshop, open studio days, an artist talk, and a final performance or concert at the farm.

Eligibility is open to artists residing in Washington or Oregon working in performing arts disciplines including music, dance, theater, music composition, interactive visual arts media, and time-based performing arts. Artists must be open to developing and sharing a project in performance or concert format and should respond to the unique location with innovative ideas. The residency requires a minimum of ten hours per week on-site, two open-studio weekend afternoons, one free artist-led workshop, and participation in a final performance. Artists provide their own materials and transportation.

The selection process is competitive and includes two phases: Phase One applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on October 16, 2024, with finalists notified by October 24, 2024. Phase Two consists of finalist interviews on October 30, 2024 between 1-4 p.m., with final selections announced in November 2024. Selection criteria include artistic excellence, strength and creativity of the residency proposal, and feasibility of creating innovative work while meeting all program expectations. The farm is a historic 67-acre property with restored buildings and structures available for tours. Contact Allison Hyde, City of Auburn Arts Program Supervisor, at [email protected] or 253.804.5043 for more information.