FREE BIPOC Artist & Writers Residency in Mexico

360 XOCHI QUETZAL is a free BIPOC Artist and Writer's Residency Program located in Chapala, Jalisco, Mexico on the shores of the largest lake in the country. The residency aims to support artists, writers, musicians, and performers who would benefit from uninterrupted time to devote to their creativity. By providing free housing and five gourmet meals a week, residents can make artistic progress without the stress and distractions of daily life.

The Winter 2023 BIPOC Residency runs February 18 – March 20, 2023 (dates may be adjusted for the winner). Eligibility is open to national and international BIPOC visual artists, photographers, writers, playwrights, poets, new media makers, storytellers, musicians, and performers over the age of 23. Selection is based on creative innovation, a well-conceived residency project, demonstrated personal impact, and evidence of self-reliance required for a residency in the developing world. Children, partners, and pets are not permitted. The application fee is $40.00 (Early Bird Discount of $35.00 for applications received before October 30, 2022). Work samples required: 3 images for Visual Artists, 1 video/audio for Musicians/Performers, 5-page double-spaced writing sample for Writers, 10-page double-spaced sample for Playwrights, 5-page single-spaced sample for Poets.

The winner receives a free live/work space for one month in the Carriage House at the historic Hotel Villa QQ in downtown Chapala, plus a $250 stipend for travel expenses. The residency includes free wi-fi, all utilities, weekly maid service, and a 25-page Residency Guidebook. Applicants are responsible for travel to and from Mexico. Chapala is located 25 minutes from Guadalajara International Airport and 45 minutes from Guadalajara. The town offers walking distance access to parks, the malecon lakeside promenade, galleries, cultural centers, cafes, and hundreds of artists and writers. The weather is sunny 300 days a year with average daytime temperatures in the 70s. Applications must be submitted through the CAFE website.