Apply to Monte Azul

“Monotype by ©Federico Herrero”

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.

APPLY

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.

Length of Residency that’s Right for You

Four-week residencies have proven to be quite successful for artists who wish to focus on their work at Monte Azul. An artist, or small group of artists, is welcome to discuss their goals and determine what works best.

All residencies initiate on a Monday and end on a Saturday.

Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the property.

Artists applying for a residency are automatically entered into the pool of potential awardees, who will be selected by an anonymous jury composed of professionals in the field of fine arts. 

  • MACA Fellowship Award
  • Andrés Cañas Barahona Award
  • The Joe & Jackie Award
  • Donna Uchida Writer’s Award
  • Gamblin Color, product sponsor

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 four-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.

Printmaking Intensive

Ideal also for artists working in photography, painting, and other media

This one-week (6 nights) residency is designed for the artist with time constraints and who also seek an opportunity for an intensive program. Ideal for intimate groups.

All residencies initiate on a Monday
The fee is USD $1,200
Master Printer is available as an option for individuals and small groups.

Included

  • Your private 24-hour access studio is equipped to match your requirements. Select from a “dry” studio for printmaking and other techniques that require a neat and dust-free environment, or a “wet” studio for work that will favor an unrestrictive process in terms of splatter, water, dust, etc…
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are prepared from locally sourced products, and served family-style in the communal atrium lounge.
  • Vegetarian meals are offered but we are unable to accommodate some dietary restrictions. Please consult when sending your application.
    Some studio supplies are provided, please specify your requirements in your application.
  • Travel to/from Monte Azul Center for the Arts from San Jose, Costa Rica in a modern coach where you will be picked up in San Isidro upon arrival and driven to your private studio.
  • Access to the trail system and the natural pool.

Options

At Monte Azul, we strive to offer a custom experience for each artist. Artists may opt for a number of additional services. Please include any option you may be interested in on your application form and we will be happy to quote accordingly.

  • Because Monte Azul studios are design by artists for artists, the spaces are ideal for working and living. Many artists may also appreciate the option of separating their lodging from the studio, please contact us for details.
  • Private transportation. For an additional fee, we have a professional ground transportation service that will greet you at the airport and follow an itinerary according to your specifications. Drivers are bilingual (English and Spanish), licensed, experienced, and fully insured.
  • Additional itinerary. Monte Azul maintains an excellent list of contacts with professional local travel services to offer artists the option of exploring Costa Rica and Latin America.
  • Master Printmaker assistance. For additional information on the optional services for our Master Printmaker, please check the appropriate box in the application form.
  • Studio assistant. Monte Azul’s local network in the arts offers the opportunity to locate and contract a specialized studio assistant.

Application and funding

Click the button below for application instructions.
Once your application is reviewed, we will be back in touch within 10 business days.