Monsoon Residency Program for Artists and Creatives
July 4 – August 20, 2025
We are pleased to invite applications for the Monsoon Artist Residency Program at Dharamkot Studio, located in the peaceful Himalayan mountains. This residency offers artists and creatives across all fields an opportunity to focus on their practice in an inspiring, secluded environment.
Designed for those seeking a dedicated space to reconnect with their work, this residency provides an ideal setting to recharge creatively and experiment within a supportive community of fellow artists. Participants can immerse themselves in the serene mountain landscapes while working within a collaborative and resourceful setting.
The program offers flexible durations from 1 to 3 weeks, allowing residents to craft an experience that best suits their creative needs.
This residency is perfect for creatives who are aiming to find…
- Community: Connect with resident artists from diverse backgrounds, sparking fresh ideas and collaborations.
- Focused Time for Creation: Step away from daily distractions and dedicate uninterrupted time to your artistic practice.
- Inspiration from Nature: The breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings of the mountains are sure to fuel your creativity.
- Collaborative Opportunities: Engage with a diverse group of artists, exchange ideas, and potentially collaborate on exciting new projects.
- Personal Growth: Take the time to reflect, rejuvenate, and explore new directions in your work in a peaceful and supportive setting.
- Professional Networking: Meet and connect with like-minded creatives from around the world, expanding your professional network.
Program Highlights
- Duration Options: 1 to 3-week between July 4 – August 20, 2025.
- Location: Dharamkot village, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India– an inspiring environment with mountain views, quiet spaces, and the richness of mountain life.
- Facilities: Private accommodation with meals, access to the studio’s pottery and general art spaces, as well as cozy common areas for relaxation and exchange.
Residency Categories
1. Self-Funded Residencies
Open to artists from any discipline who wish to engage with our space and community. Self-funded residents cover their own expenses 3500+18%GST/day including private room, all meals and studio fees. Materials cost will be extra if provided by the studio. Self funded residencies are available for-
Visual Arts: Painter, Sculptor, Illustrator, Print-maker, Photographer, Installation Artist
Digital and Media Arts: Graphic Designer, Digital Artist, Animator, Videographer/Filmmaker, Game Designer, Virtual Reality Artist
Performing Arts: Actor, Dancer/Choreographer, Musician/Composer, Performance Artist
Literary Arts: Writer/Author, Poet, Screenwriter/Playwright, Journalist
Applied Arts and Design: Fashion Designer, Interior Designer, Product Designer, Furniture Designer, Architect
Community and Public Arts: Art Curator, Art Educator/Teacher, Community Arts Worker, Art Therapist
2. Fully Funded Residencies
Dharamkot Studio is committed to supporting artists whose work aligns with our vision. Fully funded residencies are available for:
Potters & Ceramic Artists: Artists who primarily work with pottery or ceramics
Art Curators: Curators interested in exploring new ideas in curation, engaging with artists, and deepening their curatorial practice.
How to Apply?
To apply for the residency, follow these steps:
Self funded residency-
Personal Information: Full name, contact information, nationality, and date of birth, Your preferred dates and length of stay along with the type of residency (fully funded or self-funded).
Portfolio: Up to 5-10 recent works (in JPEG, PDF, or video format) that best represent your artistic practice.
Artist Statement: A brief statement (500 words maximum) outlining your creative practice, artistic vision, and influences.
Fully funded residency-
Personal Information:Full name, contact information, nationality, and date of birth, Your preferred dates and length of stay along with the type of residency (fully funded or self-funded).
Portfolio:Up to 5-10 recent works (in JPEG, PDF, or video format) that best represent your artistic practice.
Artist Statement:A brief statement (500 words maximum) outlining your creative practice, artistic vision, and influences.
Residency Proposal: Provide a detailed proposal (500 words maximum) of the project you intend to work on during the residency, explaining how you plan to utilize your time and what you aim to achieve.
Submit a CV/Resume: Provide your professional CV or resume, highlighting your education, previous exhibitions, residencies, grants, or other relevant artistic experience.
References: Provide contact details for two professional references (curators, mentors, or collaborators) who can speak to your artistic practice and work ethics.
Send all the information on- residency@dharamkotstudio.com
Application Process:
1. Submission : Please submit your complete application, including your portfolio, CV, personal statement, and project proposal, and send it to our email address.
2. Review Process : Our selection panel, comprising senior ceramic artists and Dharamkot Studio team members, will review all applications.
3. Notification : Selected artists will be notified by Email.
Selection criteria for residency program
Here are some key criteria to consider for selecting artists for the residency program:
1. Artistic Quality and Vision: Portfolio or Body of Work, Artistic Vision, and Innovation and Creativity.
2. Project Proposal: Clarity of Proposal, Feasibility to be completed or significantly advanced within the residency’s time frame and with the available resources.
3. Diversity and Inclusion: Representation from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives and Cultural Sensitivity.
4. Potential for Impact: Future Impact on Artist’s Career and Long-term Contribution by the artist.
5. Suitability for the Residency Environment: Artists who are flexible and can thrive in different environments, especially in secluded or rural locations like Dharamkot, should be considered. Their ability to work in the specific setting the residency offers is crucial.
Weather:
July and August mark the monsoon season in Dharamkot, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C. The days are often cloudy with frequent rainfall, sometimes heavy, bringing a lush green vibrancy to the landscape. The rain adds a mystical charm to the forests and trails.
How to reach:
By Air – Dharamshala airport is the nearest airport which is around 20 km (50 minutes) from the studio, direct taxi (1500/-) to the studio will be available.
By Bus – Overnight journey from Delhi by semi-sleeper bus. The nearest bus station is Dharamshala (8 km), and from the bus station, you can take a taxi (Rs. 700/-) to the studio.
By Train – Pathankot (85km) is the nearest railway station, from Pathankot you can take public transport to Dharamshala and then a taxi to the Studio. Or you can take a taxi from Pathankot to the studio.
AS SEEN ON:
FAQs
Q- Will it be raining the whole day?
A- It is possible that it might rain for long durations but this doesn’t cause any problems in the town.
Q – Do the roads ever close due to rainfall?
No, the roads are always open even when it rains because this part of Himachal Pradesh experiences almost negligible numbers of landslides.
Q- Can I take pottery workshops during my residency program?
A- The workshops do carry extra charges but yes you can explore the possibilities with the clay.
Q- Can my partner come (who is not an artist)?
A- Yes, partners can accompany residents but do ensure you mention the fact on the application form. There will be extra charges of 1600+Taxes/night including all meals.
Q- What cuisine do you serve during meal times?
A- Our kitchen serves delicious seasonal indian vegetarian food, eggs and fruit.
Q- What do I need to bring?
A- Please bring your art supplies, books, study materials, tools, etc. Alternatively, you can order your instruments and accessories online and get it delivered at the studio address. General stationary and art supplies can be purchased locally. Kindly mention any special requirements you may need, on the application.
Q– Are you located in a very remote location? Will I have network connectivity?
A– We are located at a 5 min walk from Dharamkot village, nestled in a serene pine and cedar forest. The beauty of our Studio is its location, which will give you an experience of living in nature while being near the city centre. You will have network connectivity with major providers like Airtel, Jio etc. And we have high–speed wifi too!
Q- Residency program is scheduled for 1,2 or 3 weeks? or can I come for flexible days?
A- You can come schedule your program for any number of days between 1 to 3 weeks.