OUR RESIDENCY PROGRAM
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, the residency program offers artists uninterrupted time for work, reflection, and community within a fully equipped studio.
Residency Program 2026:
ENROLLMENT IS NOW OPEN
Location: Penland Area, Bakersville, North Carolina, USA
Dates: February 21 – March 8, 2026
Registration close on: January 15, 2026
Selected participants notified: January 20, 2026
Application link: Link
You can find all the information about the residency program on the website below.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact us at figurativeceramics@gmail.com.
Residency Program
The Residency program is a short-term residency opportunity for artists seeking to work independently in a fully equipped ceramics studio.
Practicing ceramic artists of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply for two 2-week sessions. Shared studio access is given to two artists each session, as well as their own 10’x10’ studio within the larger shared space.
Artists will work independently alongside founder, Cristina Córdova. Although there is no formal programming participating artists will be invited to share slides and participate in progress critiques.
This experience is designed to support and enhance the creativity of artists by providing uninterrupted time for work, reflection, and community.
Next residency will take place in February-March 2026.
Our ceramic residency program offers a unique opportunity for artists to immerse themselves in a creative and supportive environment. Nestled in a serene natural setting, this residency provides the perfect backdrop for inspiration and artistic growth.
Facilities
Residents will have complete access to all studio equipment, including:
4 top-loading electric kilns
Sandblaster
Electric wheel
Spray booth
Slab roller
Wood firing pit
Fully equipped glaze kitchen
We ensure full technical assistance to help you become familiar with the facilities and equipment.
Residency Cost and Inclusions
Residency Fee: The residency fee is $1320 for the 2-week program. Travel expenses, accommodation, food , transportation or any other expenses are not covered.
Accommodation: Residents are responsible for arranging their own housing. We are happy to offer suggestions or guidance if needed.
Due to the rural location and the limited availability of accommodations in the area, we have made a preliminary reservation at two nearby properties within walking distance of the studio. This can be especially helpful during this time of year, when access can be sometimes more challenging due to snow and ice.
Residents are not required to stay at these accommodations and are welcome to make their own arrangements. These options are simply provided as a convenience. Any payments or agreements will be handled directly between the residents and the property owners; we only facilitate the introduction and availability of these accommodations.
Material Fees: Material fees will be assessed and offered at cost within the studio. After your acceptance, we'll provide you with a list of materials and firing prices. This will help you organize your firing schedule schedule and decide which materials you can conveniently purchase from the studio and which ones you'd prefer to buy online or bring from home.
Travel: Residents are responsible for travel expenses to and from our studios. Due to the rural nature of our location we ask/recommend that you bring a car.
Food: We invite residents to join us for a welcome dinner on the night of their arrival, providing a chance to connect and settle in. While food is not included in the residency beyond this initial dinner, the suggested apartments in the area are equipped with a full kitchen, and you'll find few supermarket options in the are.
Application fee: This residency is completely free to apply to.
For full terms and conditions of our residency,
please see here.
Focused time for creativity: Enjoy uninterrupted time dedicated solely to your artistic practice, away from daily distractions and responsibilities.
Community and support: You will be part of a small, focused working community consisting of Cristina Córdova, the team members who work with her, and the two residents. This intimate setting allows for meaningful exchange, including conversations around ideas, techniques, and thoughtful feedback on your work as it develops.
Inspiration from new environments: The natural surroundings can provide endless inspiration for your ceramic work, influencing your designs and ideas in new and unexpected ways.
Access to specialized equipment: Gain access to a variety of specialized tools and equipment that may not be available in your personal studio.
Motivation: Being part of a dedicated artistic community can boost your motivation and drive to create.
Why Take a Residency?
