Monte Azul Center for the Arts
Apply to Monte Azul
Residency
Nearly 100 artists each year come to Monte Azul Center for the Arts. The intimacy of the experience is intentional.
Simple Application Process
To apply for a Residency, just complete the online application (below) which we will acknowledge once received and respond to shortly.
Scale
The Residency program is intended for individuals, with collaborating spouses and partners with prior approval.
Additionally, small groups with a maximum of eight artists may apply as a workshop studio experience by renting all four studios.
The facilities are for adults, children are not admitted.
Included
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Meals are delivered daily to the communal dining area. Included: full breakfast, main meal, snacks, nonalcoholic beverages. Vegetarian meals are offered but we are unable to accommodate some dietary restrictions. Please consult when sending your application.
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Some studio supplies are provided, please specify your requirements in your application
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Access to the trail system and the natural pool
Options
At Monte Azul, we strive to offer a custom experience. Artists may opt for additional services to enhance their stay. Please indicate any interests on your application for a personalized quote.
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Separate Lodging & Studio: While our studios are designed for integrated living and working, we offer the option to separate them. Contact us for details.
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Private Transportation: We can refer you to a professional, bilingual driver service for airport transfers and custom itineraries.
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Regional Travel: We maintain contacts with local travel services to help you explore Costa Rica and Latin America.
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Master Printmaker: For details on working with our Master Printmaker, please check the appropriate box in the application.
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Studio Assistant: We can help you locate and contract a specialized studio assistant from our local network.
FAQs
What is the Monte Azul Contemporary Art (MACA) Residency?
MACA is an artists' residency program located on a 100-acre private preserve in Costa Rica. Founded by artists, our mission is to provide a tranquil, supportive environment where artists, writers, and other creatives can fully dedicate themselves to their practice, free from the distractions of daily life. We offer private lodging, studio space, meals, and access to facilities for a wide range of media.
Who is the ideal candidate for a residency
We seek self-directed, motivated artists at any stage of their career who are looking for a period of focused work and immersion in a unique natural environment. Our program is best suited for those who value solitude, respect for nature, and a collaborative spirit within a small community of creatives.
How do I apply? Is there an application fee?
The application process is detailed on our Application Page. All applications are submitted through our online form. There is no application fee.
Does Monte Azul help connect resident artists with the local arts community?
Yes. A key part of our mission is to foster connections. We are pleased to facilitate introductions for our resident artists to our colleagues in the Costa Rican arts scene, including galleries, curators, and institutions in San José. To help you prepare for your residency and plan potential visits, we highly recommend consulting the GAM Cultural Guide. This comprehensive online resource provides listings and information for exhibitions, theaters, and cultural events.
What is the typical length of a residency?
Residencies are typically a minimum of two weeks, though most artists apply for the three-week residency. Longer stays than four weeks can be arranged based on availability. The application allows you to indicate your preferred dates and duration.
Can I bring a partner or collaborator?
The residency is designed privacy and intimacy, allowing artists to focus on their work and to reflect, to explore, and to "play." Partners, children, or pets are not permitted. Collaborative projects between two or more artists are welcome when the application proposal outlines the goals of the residency.
I have more questions. Can I speak to someone directly?
Because Monte Azul receives many applications and we are a small team, it is very difficult to answer detailed questions via phone or email. Instead, we have designed this FAQ and our detailed application page to answer the most common questions we have received over the years. If you have a critical question not answered here, you may note it in your application.
About Fees
To confirm your residency dates at Monte Azul, the full fee is due within five (5) days of your application's approval.
For your convenience, we offer a two-payment plan upon request:
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50% deposit due upon approval to secure your spot.
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50% final payment due within 30 days.
Please note that a 5% monthly fee will be applied to any outstanding balance after the 30-day period. All fees must be paid in full no later than 60 days prior to your arrival.
As a reminder, all fees are non-refundable. However, we understand that plans can change, and you may request to postpone your residency, subject to Monte Azul's approval.
Four Week Option
A four-week (27 nights) residency allows many artists enough time to focus on their work while also making it practical to arrange around personal and professional responsibilities.
All residencies initiate on a Monday.
The fee is USD $4,900
Includes all meals, plus everything listed below.
Three Week Option
A three-week (20 nights) residency allows many artists enough time to focus on their work while also immersing themselves in the natural environment Monte Azul offers.
All residencies initiate on a Monday.
The fee is USD $3,600
Includes all meals, plus everything listed below.
Two Week Option
A two-week (13 nights) residency allows many artists enough time to focus on their work while also making it practical to arrange around personal and professional responsibilities.
All residencies initiate on a Monday.
The fee is USD $2,400
Includes all meals, plus everything listed below
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Application and funding
Every applicant is considered for any grant or award available at that time (see Self-Funding page). Specific calls for applications will be listed as an option on the form when available.
Click the button below for application instructions.
Once your application is reviewed, we will be back in touch within 10 business days.