The Watermill Center’s Artist Residency Program began in 2006 when the Center officially opened as a year-round facility. Each year collectives and individuals take up residence at The Watermill Center to develop works that critically investigate, challenge, and extend the existing norms of artistic practice.

The Artist Residency Program is process-based, without the expectation or promise of a final exhibition of the work. The Watermill Center provides artists with the time, space, and freedom to develop their practice in a communal environment that encourages experimentation. Artists-in-Residence share their creative process with the community through open rehearsals, workshops, and artist talks.

Artists-in-Residence receive access to an extensive collection of resources central to The Watermill Center experience: 20,000 square feet of rehearsal/design spaces and outdoor stages; a theater production archive; The Watermill Center Study Center and Library of Inspiration; The Watermill Collection; and The Watermill Center’s ten-acre landscaped grounds and gardens.

Applications are reviewed by an international committee of distinguished Watermill Center alumni made up of artists, academics, and cultural leaders across disciplines. To date, we have hosted over 250 residencies featuring 2500 artists from more than 90 nations.

2027 ARTIST RESIDENCY PROGRAM APPLICATIONS OPEN ON DECEMBER 4, 2025

APPLICATIONS DUE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2026 AT 11:59PM EST

1. Applications are accepted through the online portal, SlideRoom, at https://watermillcenter.slideroom.com.

2. SlideRoom will lead you through the required questions, attachments, and media uploads.

3. There is a $12 USD fee per application required by SlideRoom. Payment is accepted on the SlideRoom website.

For all technical questions (work sample uploads, payment issues, trouble submitting, login problems) please email support@slideroom.com.

For questions regarding the program or application process, please refer to our FAQ. If you cannot find the relevant information, email us at applications@watermillcenter.org.

Please note: We do not accept late applications. There will be no extension on the deadline. Applicants will be notified of the status of their application by early summer 2026.