Host Your Own Residency FAQ
The Host Your Own Artist Residency offering guides individuals, organizations, or land stewards through the process of designing, planning, and facilitating their own artist residency program inspired by the principles of Activation Residency—centering equity, creative exploration, and community care.
Where are you located?
We are based at our farm in Bethel, New York—the historic 1969 Woodstock hamlet—after years of hosting at the Outlier Inn in Woodridge, New York. We are actively building an integrated regenerative whole-site design that will support long-term residencies.
You can reach Forest Fringe Farm by car or by bus. If you're coming from New York City, the Shortline/Coach USA bus runs from Port Authority to Monticello, with one-way tickets typically costing between $30 and $40. From the Monticello bus station, you can use a rideshare service or arrange a taxi to bring you directly to the farm. If you prefer to drive, please be mindful of the changing speed limits along Route 17B as you approach Bethel.
Once you're on Behr Road, finding the farm is simple. If you turn onto Behr Road from Jim Stephenson Road, our grassy, loose-gravel driveway will be about 1,000 feet ahead on your right. If you’re approaching from 17B, you’ll find the same driveway on your left. Pull into the driveway and veer to the right, taking care to avoid the ditch on the left side. Please park in a single-file line behind any other vehicles already there. If you need any help with parking or guidance when you arrive, we’re happy to assist.
After you’ve parked, the walk to the main farm area and campsite takes about three to five minutes. We can help with unloading your vehicle if needed. Be sure to lock your car and keep your keys easily accessible in case of an emergency.
Who can host a residency?
Anyone with a vision for supporting creative work can submit a proposal including artists, arts organizations, land-based communities, cultural centers, schools, and community hubs committed to equitable access and artistic growth.
What kinds of residency programs can I create?
Hosts can tailor their residencies to their community’s needs—examples include:
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Short-term intensive creative retreats
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Long-form residencies with thematic focus
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Community-engaged art programs
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Land-based and ecological arts experiences
We encourage interdisciplinary approaches and experimental formats rooted in creative development and connection.
What support does Activation Residency provide to hosts?
Do I need to have hosted residencies before?
No prior experience is required! This offering is designed for first-time hosts and experienced organizers alike, with step-by-step resources and mentorship support so you can build confidence and capacity.
How long can residencies be?
Residencies can range from short weekend intensives to multi-week immersive programs, depending on your space, capacity, and goals. There is flexibility in duration and structure to best fit your community and creative objectives.
Is funding available for host-led residencies?
Activation Residency offers guidance on identifying sustainable revenue streams, funding partnerships, and possible sponsorship structures, but primary funding responsibilities lie with the host. Support includes planning for equitable stipends, hospitality, and resource provisioning.
How do I get started?
- Reach out via the contact form on the Activation Residency website or email.
- Share your concept, space details, and vision for the residency.
- Submit a $500 deposit to hold your dates.
- Work with the Activation Residency team to develop a hosting plan.
- Launch your residency and join a growing network of artistic hosts.
Is the site accessible?
We want everyone with access needs to feel welcome, but the farm context can be inherently rugged and variable. Please contact us with your access needs as early as possible so we can discuss what’s possible.
Are pets allowed?
Typically no (except service animals), but policies may vary. Please ask in advance rather than assuming.
How do I get in touch?
Email info@activationresidency.com or call (929) 435-9841.