Joshua Tree Highlands Artist Residency 2027-2028

Joshua Tree Highlands Artist Residency (JTHAR) offers seven-week residencies for artists at all stages of their careers working in all media, including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, film, video, new media, installation, fiction and non-fiction writing, interdisciplinary work, social practice, and architecture. Musical submissions are not being accepted at this time. The program fosters creativity through opportunities for exploring, experimenting, quiet reflection, engagement, and cross-cultural exchange with the vibrant local artist community.

Three seven-week residency sessions are offered: May 6 - June 24, 2026; August 26 - October 14, 2026; and January 13 - March 3, 2027. The submission deadline is December 15, 2025 at 11:59 PM Mountain Time. The entry fee is $45.00. Artists must be 18 years or older, and both US and international artists are eligible. Selection is based on the merit of the artist's portfolio and residency proposal, with priority given to proposals that anticipate potential transformations and discoveries inspired by place.

Residency recipients receive a $1,500 scholarship to defer program costs. The residency provides studio space and living accommodations, with each artist assigned their own house in the Highlands near the West Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. Artists may also work in the JTHAR-dedicated studio space. Artists must provide their own transportation and have a vehicle available during the residency. A vehicle is required and artists must be able to attend the full seven-week program with no exceptions. Visitors are limited to two-night stays, and the program cannot accommodate family members, partners, or pets. Artists chosen for the residency must donate one completed work to JTHAR. A mid-residency review allows artists to share work-in-progress with board members. Artists have the option of an open studio exhibition at the JTHAR Ranch. Please note that summer months are very hot in the high desert; all houses are equipped with air conditioning. For questions, contact [email protected] or call/text 310-562-0511.