The residency program provides opportunities for artists to work at THE LAND's 40-acre outdoor work site and exhibition space near Mountainair, NM. Because the site is made available exclusively as a venue for low-impact, site-specific environmental art, residencies at the site require both a commitment of time and a willingness to work intimately with, rather than merely on, the land—in effect, to think of the land as a collaborator. Resident artists commit to a stay of one week at minimum; a stay of two or more weeks is strongly encouraged. Many residents, especially those coming from urban environments, report needing several days to adjust to the site’s demands—solitude, a slower pace, an adjustment of focus to take in both its scale and openness and its minute variety and richness—before they can begin working in earnest. Once artists have begun working with the land, they usually find it a generative, rather than a passive, collaborator. Although the artist is asked to provide an outline of the proposed project, he or she should also remain open to adapting or even significantly altering it according to the demands of the site’s specific features. Some artists find it necessary to rethink entirely the ideas they bring with them. Often some feature or aspect of the site will suggest an idea for an artwork the artist has not previously considered. The off-grid site has a sheltered work area, a supply of water, basic cooking facilities, and a composting privy. Indoor accommodations on the site are not currently available. Art installed at the site is temporary, and artists agree to dismantle any physical artworks they have made there. Thorough documentation of all projects is encouraged. For information about applying for a residency, contact THE LAND/an art site. Back to Index