Frequently Asked Questions
What residency programs do you offer and when can I apply? Is there a fee?
We currently offer one residency program - which is strictly for Sculptors. This 45 year old program is one of the only sculpture specific residency programs available.
There is a $35 fee to apply to our residency program through Slide Room. The open call for applications occurs at the same time each year and has specific application requirements.
Sculpture Space invites artists from around the world, representing a wide diversity of artistic styles and practices, to gather for 2 month cohorts four times a year. These cohorts were created to allow artists to collaborate and share ideas. Concentrated time for creative work is balanced with the stimulation of cultural exchange and critical appraisal.
Open Call Period: November 1 - Jan 15
Application Requirements: Bio, CV, brief artist statement, project description, up to 10 images or video excerpts.. Alumni of the program are not eligible for a second residency. Residency applicants will be notified of their acceptance status the following April.We are a residency program for Sculptors - this is defined in the broadest possible terms. We ask that three dimensionality be a component that is integral to the execution and or experience of your artistic work. Our review panel consists of panelists with diverse backgrounds and we review each artist based solely on the quality of the work submitted and projects that are proposed.
This highly competitive program selects, on average, one artist for every fifteen submissions.
What is the weather like in Utica?
Winter Cohort: February/March gets very cold and snow is common (-10° to 42° F / -23° to 6° C). The winter cohort starts our year during the contemplative hermitage times in upstate New York. A quiet cohort and somewhat isolated with outdoor activity limited to winter outings until the middle of March. This period is the last month of true winter morphing into the first month of spring with most of our accumulated snowfall happening during this session. Will require warm and durable clothing (winter jacket & boots).
Spring Cohort: April/May should prepare for mild, wet weather (38° to 77° F / 3° to 27° C. The spring cohort is accented by the disappearance of the cold and dark of winter, with days becoming longer and wildlife responding with excitement and exuberance. Plants come out of hibernation and flowers bloom. This time of year often brings rain and mud too. Be prepared for wet and sun and warm clothing is sometimes needed as are shorts and t-shirts.
Summer Cohort: July/ August are often hot and muggy (58° to 85+° F / 14° - 29° C) The summer cohort is hazy/gooey and accentuated with crickets and mosquitos. All of nature is in full production. The days are long and relatively mild temperatures. There are a few days when the humid heat can be intense. We provide air conditioning in the living quarters and fans in the studio. This is a time of year when you might also find rain storms and some summer wind. In general it is easier to pack light as the only jacket you will need is a rain jacket. Shorts and T-shirts are the norm.
Fall Cohort: October/November can get cold with snow possible in (29° to 53° F/ -2° to 12° C). The fall cohort is a nice time of change as the days get shorter, the local trees and foliage burst with color. The days are generally cooler, there may be an errant burst of warmth, but is short lived. We have had snow and cold at this time, so will require warm and durable clothing (winter jacket & boots). The transition of this time necessitates readiness for all kinds of weather, both light and heavier layers is key!.
Do I need a Covid vaccination to attend?
Yes, if offered a residency, you will need to supply proof of Covid vaccination before arriving at Sculpture Space.
Can you help me with the visa process?
We can help answer questions if you need to obtain a visa. It is highly recommended that you begin this process as soon as you can, as there are often delays. This has been especially true during Covid recovery. If you need a letter of participation for your visa application, please e-mail our Executive Director.
What kind of experience can I expect?
In general, all of Sculpture Space’s residency programs have a communal orientation. Sharing ideas, creative space, and living space comprises a major part of the Sculpture Space residency experience. Some relevant, off site field trips may be organized by staff; participation is encouraged. Each residency has at least one public event, which invites the public to observe the creative process at work, and work produced while in residency here.
How can I plan my arrival to Sculpture Space? Can I bring my car?
For most international residents: fly to New York City (JFK or LaGuardia Airports). From here, you may take a shuttle or taxi service to Moynihan Train annex at Penn Station in Manhattan. From there, take an Amtrak train to Utica, New York. We will pick you up at the train station in Utica, New York. It is recommended that if you have a long trip, that you find a hotel in NYC before taking the 4 hour train trip north to Utica.
If driving, residents are welcome to park a car at Sculpture Space throughout the duration of their residency. Driving directions should be mapped to 12 Gates St. Utica NY.
We will inform residents of specific arrival and departure dates well in advance of the residency period.
What does Sculpture Space provide?
Sculpture Space provides private living accommodations in a shared house (shared bathroom/kitchens), and semi-private art studios. There is campus-wide high-speed wi-fi throughout both spaces for the duration of all residencies. In addition, residents share 3 fully-equipped kitchens, on-site laundry facilities. Sculpture Space provides all blankets, towels, and bedding. Housekeeping staff launders all linens prior to your arrival. We expect all residents to leave the facilities (studio and house) in the same condition as when they arrive.
Additionally, Sculpture Space provides a modest stipend of $750 for all attending artists. This stipend is paid in two installments (one upon arrival and one upon departure). We strongly encourage artists who have greater financial needs to work with funding agencies to secure additional support for your stay with us well in advance of your stay with us.
As an “artist first” residency program, Sculpture Space works extremely hard to funnel the majority of all funds raised to support our selected artists. HERE is a detailed breakdown.
Sculpture Space does not provide personal laptops or electronic devices, or art materials.
Do I need to buy my own food?
Yes. Sculpture Space provides 3 fully equipped kitchens. One on each floor of the residence and one in the studio for your convenience. We do not provide food.
Please treat this as an Airbnb and not a luxury hotel- we provide all reasonable accommodations for your stay, and ask that you bring all needed items to personalize and make your stay comfortable.
What are the studios like? What equipment do you have available?
Sculpture Space residents are given their own semi-private studio off our main studio space with a large table, chair, and shelves. Sculpture Space has printers, sound system, lights, gantry cranes, and a wide selection of tools: a chop saw, table saw, 2 Band saws, grinders, sanders, a drill press, compressor, welders and hand tools. We do not provide nails, screws, paint, or other consumable items. Residents are expected to return their studio in the same condition in which it was received.
What should I bring?
Personal items: Any medication, toiletries, weather-appropriate clothing, and supplies/materials needed during the residency. There are scheduled shopping trips to specialized stores that residents may join as needed. We have a phone for residents to make local calls; Skype and other VOIP are recommended for international calls, otherwise residents must purchase a SIM card for their cell phone.
Residents must bring or arrange to purchase while in residence all supplies required during their stay. It is recommended that residents bring a laptop if regular computer use is desired; however there is a shared computer and printer available on campus for occasional use located in the main studio.
We generally use “WhatsApp” as a communication platform amongst residents and staff while here and strongly suggest that all attendees download and familiarize prior to your arrival.
International Travelers: Sculpture Space does not provide international power adapters for electronic devices - please bring one if you are traveling from another country and plan to use your personal electronic devices.
Are the studios and living space accessible for persons with disabilities?
Yes. Sculpture Space has several bedrooms, bathrooms, and studio spaces that are accessible. We aim to create accessibility for all, and welcome contact with applicants as early in the process as possible to ensure we are prepared to meet the needs of any prospective residents. Contact the studio manager with any questions.
Can I send mail to/from Sculpture Space?
Regular mail is delivered to Sculpture Space daily, except Sundays. Purchase of stamps and mailing of packages can be taken care of at the Butterfield Post Office. Regular service to Sculpture Space by Federal Express, Airborne Express, UPS, etc., is available, including overnight service. If you intend to receive mail or packages, your mailing address while at Sculpture Space is:
Your Name
c/o Sculpture Space
12 Gates St.
Utica, New York 13052
USA
May I smoke?
There is no smoking or vaping allowed inside any of the buildings at Sculpture Space. Residents are welcome to smoke outdoors. Please respect the property by using ashtrays to dispose of cigarette butts.
Can my spouse/family come with me to the residency? Can I invite guests to stay with me during the residency?
Residents are not permitted overnight visitors at Sculpture Space, including spouses and other family members. Personal visitors are welcome on a limited basis. We are happy to suggest hotels for your guests.
Can I bring my pet with me?
No, we love pets but please leave them at home. If you have a condition that requires the aid of a service animal, please contact the Studio Manager.
How do I get around Utica?
Sculpture Space is located in a small city within a rural location, without access to public transportation. Sculpture Space has bicycles that residents can use from March - November (this is weather and road dependent). It's a half block walk from the residence to the studio. Pubs and eateries on Varick St. are 1 ½ blocks from the residence. Walking/biking in Utica is common, barring snow. We do have Taxi, Uber and Lyft services available and can be hired at artists discretion/expense if more frequent trips are needed. Most shopping will require a car and Sculpture Space staff will arrange for weekly shopping trips for food & supplies.
What is there to do in the surrounding areas?
Sculpture Space is located in the heart of the Mohawk Valley gateway to the Adirondacks. The City of Utica has a wonderful Museum MWPAI, Pratt school of art, several Colleges/Universities, bars and breweries, restaurants, coffee shops, libraries, movie theaters, and shopping. In addition, Oneida County is a wealth of natural beauty; there are several land conservation areas with hiking and nature trails, accessible year-round. This area, although vibrant and full of rich history and culture, has limited access to many activities that those coming from larger cities might be accustomed to. A nightlife and restaurant culture is not this area’s strong suit, so preparation for a calmer and more small town experience is advised.
What is your drug and alcohol policy?
It is the policy of Sculpture Space, and the law, to be a drug-free environment. We also ask that residents consume alcohol responsibly.
Statement of non-discrimination:
Sculpture Space is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, physical ability or disability. Sculpture Space will not tolerate any behavior that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. Our aim is to create a vibrant and safe creative sanctuary, and strive to provide an environment that accommodates artists from a multiplicity of backgrounds and circumstances.
How do I refer to Sculpture Space on my CV, resume, website, etc.?
The correct name of the organization is Sculpture Space Inc.
If you have questions not addressed above, please contact the Studio Manager.