Residency
Activation Residency holds time and land for artists who need both. While in residence at the farm, artists are given the freedom to slow down, listen, and work in close relationship with the land and each other.
Days unfold with long stretches of self-directed time including writing, composing, researching, and moving alongside moments of collective gathering. Residents move through meadows and forest paths, work outdoors, and allow weather, light, and seasonal change to inform their process.
The farm functions as both a workspace and a living collaborator. Whether your practice is solitary or social, the residency holds deep focus and meaningful connection in the same breath.
WHAT PEOPLE HAVE SAID
"Activation Residency opened my orbit to a level of care that is tender and pure. I wasn't sure what I was walking into, and having left the weekend feeling recharged and loved, I ultimately didn't know I needed something as special as this to get a better understanding of how we extend care to others, but also to our caretakers." Zenat Begum · 2020
"My time at Activation Residency was transformational. That weekend affirmed for me that we can create a radically healing community by gathering together with open hearts, clear communication, and healing intentions. As a Black femme I rarely feel safe to show up fully as myself. But at Activation Residency, I felt and witnessed acceptance, safety, and healing." Rochelle Wilbun · 2020
"Activation Residency is a rare space that actually shows up for community care. Every aspect of the residency is made with so much intention, safety, and vibrance. This space offered a balance of solo rest and play while creating time for connection. I feel completely changed by this experience." Annika Hansteen-Izora · 2020
WHAT TO EXPECT
Residency life typically balances self-directed creative time with optional shared experiences like communal meals, skill-shares, workshops, conversations, and moments of rest and play.Residents aren't required to produce anything while they're here. Activation Residency's ethos has always deprioritized the demand for constant output, and instead held the conditions that let practice deepen through care, access, and community.
After their residencies, artists often come back the following season to host their own program. We introduce them to our network of chefs, facilitators, and local makers. What begins as a residency often becomes a longer relationship.
CURRENT PROGRAM
Slow Work — Summer 2027
Seven days · Eleven artists · Forest Fringe Farm · Bethel, NY June 27 – July 3, 2027 · Free to apply and free to attend.
Questions? Email info@activationresidency.com