The CalArts Reef Residency offers a transformative opportunity for artists to immerse themselves in creative collaboration and production, providing the space, resources, and community needed to bring ambitious projects to life in the heart of downtown Los Angeles.
The CalArts Reef Residency is a six-month program that provides participants with a shared studio space, a performing space, a kitchen, common areas, and a gallery. Residents are awarded a $2,500 stipend to use towards completing their projects. Applicants can reapply for an additional consecutive 6-month residency and $2,500 stipend following the conclusion of their initial residency.
The Residency is housed in the Reef building in downtown Los Angeles on Broadway and Washington, close to the Grand/LATTC Metro station. The building hosts a range of amenities, including free parking, 24/7 access, security, a freight elevator, proximity to other artists and cultural organizations, and on-site facility rentals. This fellowship expressly encourages CalArts Reef residents to get involved in opportunities held at the building over the year and to propose their own exhibitions, symposia, events, and readings.
Alumni (MFA and MA) from the School of Critical Studies, School of Film/Video that have graduated within the past 3 years (2022-2024) may apply. Alumni from the School of Art that have graduated in 2024 may apply. Applicants must be highly motivated, responsible, and collaborative to be considered for participation. Two applicants from each school will be admitted. Applicants should complete the application form answering each question as clearly as possible. Applications outlining the proposed use of the spaces and demonstrating an ability to work within a shared studio environment are preferred.
Individual or collaborative applications are welcome. Collaborative proposals can be across disciplines or schools and all proposals should outline a proposed project or theme to be explored. Any collaborative proposals that cross schools must be submitted to one School alone.
reefapplications@calarts.edu (for School of Art applicants)
csreefapplications@calarts.edu (for School of Critical Studies applicants)
filmvideo@calarts.edu (for School of Film/Video applicants)
Email subject heading: ‘Reef Residency 2025’
Must include name, program, year of graduation, and contact information
Completed residency questionnaire
Detailed project proposal
Detailed project budget for duration of 6-month residency
Review Process
A committee of representatives from the School of Art, School of Critical Studies, School of Film/ Video, and the Residency Program Manager will oversee the selection process. All successful applicants will be advertised on the CalArts website in a general press announcement, as well as other potential publications.
Agreement and Deposit
Upon appointment all residents will be asked to sign a tenancy agreement assuming responsibility for any damage caused to the space or facilities and to be aware of the general health and safety regulations of the Reef building. Each resident will be required to pay a deposit of $500, which will be refunded following a building inspection of any damages caused at the end of the award.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are collaborative residencies possible? Candidates may apply for collaborative residencies, with a maximum of 2 collaborating residents per application. If accepted, collaborative residents must share their space and stipend.
Do I need to use the facilities and live in Los Angeles to apply? Applicants who do not plan to use Residency facilities, do not live in the Los Angeles area during the residency, or plan to leave the Los Angeles area during the residency, will not be considered.
Can I live at or store my belongings at the Reef? Residents may not live at the Residency nor use it as a storage space.
Which residents are eligible for an extension of the Residency? Residents with a track record of frequent and proper facility use, as well as a amiable relationships with other residents, building staff, and CalArts faculty/staff are encouraged to apply for a second fellowship.
Can I host events at the Residency? Residents can host art openings, performances, film screenings, and many other types of events in Residency facilities. The Reef building management may ask for project proposals and lists of participants in advance.
