SebArts Ceramics Artist in Residence Program

Sebastopol Center for the Arts (SebArts) is a community-funded arts organization in Sonoma County, California, that engages 10,000+ visitors annually through gallery exhibitions, documentary film festival, literary arts programming, choir, youth and adult education, ceramics program, special events, and two open studios programs. The Ceramics Artist in Residence program is designed to invite exceptional ceramicists to experiment with themes and ideas in a self-directed setting.

This 6-week residency program (April 1-May 15, 2026) offers space to create a cohesive body of work in a collaborative community. The program includes opportunities to lead two classes or workshops, give an artist talk, support emerging artists in the Incubator program, and culminates with a gallery exhibition. The facility features three electric kilns and two gas kilns (one raku) with options for soda, wood, and pit firings. Residents will have access to ten electric wheels, a large slab roller, and an extensive chemical library. Selected artists will receive a $10,000 stipend, private housing within walking distance of SebArts, one round-trip airline ticket, and transportation from SFO airport. Up to $900 is available for artwork shipping. Residents will be provided with 200 lbs of clay and are expected to spend 30 hours per week in the shared studio.

Eligibility is open to all ceramicists with demonstrated practice in ceramics or clay-related work, technical proficiency with equipment, ability to work independently and safely, and willingness to teach, mentor, and engage the community. Selection is through a jury process evaluating artistic merit and studio/material competency based on portfolio, resume, letter of intent, and professional references. Application deadline: November 15, 2025. Entry fee: $25. Applicants must submit an artist statement (1-2 pages), residency proposal, resume, portfolio (10-20 high-quality images), image list with titles and dimensions, 1-2 professional references, and community engagement proposal.