We accept applications from those doing creative and scholarly work in the following fields:

Literature including: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Playwriting, Screenwriting, Journalism, Songwriting.

Visual Arts including: Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Architecture, Paper/ Textile arts, Photography, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Digital Art, Illustration, Mixed Media, Film/Video.

Performance Art including: Music, Singing, Theatre, and Dance.

Arts & Humanities, Philosophy & Research, and Food Art.

Other – feel free to write in your own unique discipline 

Approximately 18-20 places are awarded each year.

The online application consists of:

• An application form
• 1-2 reference letters
• A curriculum vitae
• A description in English of the project that the applicant would pursue during her/his stay
• 1-3 recent and representative work samples

Yes. We have a few partial fellowships available each year in the amount of $1000 off residency fees. Descriptions are as follows: 

The Essere Special Fellowship for BIPOC CULTURAL EXPLORATIONS is dedicated to Black, Indigenous and People of Color creatives who research, innovate and celebrate their cultural heritage. Those who foster positive dialogue, challenge narratives, envision possibilities for cultural expression and understanding, and amplify historically marginalized voices should apply.⁠

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The Essere Special Fellowship for EMERGING VOICES supports fresh voices in literature, visual arts, digital media, theater, or interdisciplinary projects. This is for early-career creatives who are passionately sharing their perspectives and exploring original ways to engage audiences to shape the future of storytelling, art, and culture.⁠

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The Essere Special Fellowship for REFLECTIONS ON IDENTITY honors creatives who are exploring the complexities of identity, self-expression, and belonging. Whether examining personal or collective identity, through race, gender, sexuality, migration or culture, applicants should demonstrate a commitment to using their work as a tool for introspection, and societal discourse. ⁠

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The Essere Special Fellowship for CREATIVE FUSIONS supports visionary creatives who are innovating through interdisciplinary experimentation to create transformative work. Whether blending visual arts with digital media, literature with performance, music with interactive design, or other unique fusions, applicants should demonstrate bold experimentation and the development of creative practices that challenge conventional norms.⁠

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The Essere Special Fellowship for SINGLE PARENT CREATIVES supports artists of any discipline who balance the demands of their creative pursuits with the responsibilities of single parenthood. Recognizing the unique challenges single parents face, this fellowship was formed to encourage those who continue to create, innovate, and inspire despite obstacles. ⁠ 

Referees must know your work and you as a person. All letters should contain an appraisal of your artistic work and an assessment of your ability to participate productively in an intimate, international, multi-lingual community of artists.

Letters will be sent directly through the online application portal through a unique link that is sent to referees via email. Applicants are responsible for following-up with their referees to ensure timely submission.

No. You should choose the discipline that is best related to the project you would pursue at the residency.

Separate applications are required for each resident, even if they are presenting the same project description. Please note that residents working on a collaborative project may have to share the same bedroom and work space.

Applications are accepted through the online application system. We cannot consider any material sent by mail or email.

Yes, there is a $30 application fee. Application fees cover the admissions review process and are non-refundable.

Residencies are 2 weeks long.

$3800 – USD/ person in private room

$3300 – USD/ person in shared room

Please see What’s Included & Price

We have very several fellowships available but they are highly competitive. Please indicate on your application if financial assistance is essential and why your work aligns with one or more of  the available fellowships. 

We are always glad to assist you in applying for grant funding by providing a formal letter of invitation. 

Sometimes work exchange options become available. Please contact director@essereresidency for details. 

No, if you miss the application deadline, you must wait until the next application period to apply. 

Candidates are notified within 15 days of the application deadline.

See our FAQ page or contact director@essereresidency.org