How do I apply for this residency?
Applications for residencies must be submitted through the online application process in CaFE (Call for Entry – see “apply now” link on our Applications page). A $25 application fee applies to all submissions and is collected through the application portal. Applications received via USPS mail or email will not be considered and exceptions will not be made. Be sure to review all application guidelines prior to completing your online application.
Do you accept applications for collaborations?
Yes, we do accept applications from artists wishing to work at Mother's Milk in collaboration with another artist(s). Collaborative team applicants must complete a shared application. Each collaborative team should submit work samples of previous collaboration as this team. If this is your first time working together, provide personal work samples that together total the work samples for an individual applicant (not double the work samples). An artist may apply as an individual applicant AND as a member of a collaborative team, but these are two separate applications and application fees.
I am not a U.S. Citizen and/or do not reside in the United States, am I eligible to apply for a residency?
Yes, we welcome and encourage applications and residents from across the globe. If selected, you are responsible for your own travel and visa arrangements and expenses. All applications must be submitted in English and conversational English language skills are required.
How long is a residency?
Residencies range from 2-6 weeks in length. We make our best attempt to accommodate awardees’ first choice in residency dates and length; however, we are not always able to do so due to limited space. Artists are expected to remain at Mother's Milk for the duration of their residency.
Is there a fee to apply?
Yes, there is a $25 application fee. The fee must be paid through the online application portal (CaFE) at the time of submission. Mother's Milk is unable to accept checks, money orders, or other forms of payment.
Can the application fee be waived?
No, we are not able to waive the application fee.
When will I hear back about my residency and how will I be notified?
All notifications will be sent via email from an @mothersmilkart.org address. Notification for the current season will be sent mid-March.
Will my references automatically be contacted for a letter of recommendation?
No, we will only contact references once the jury process is complete and final determination of our awardees and wait lists are being determined. If you have been offered a residency, but were unable to accept, or have been placed on our wait list within the previous two years and we already have recommendations for you on file, we may forego contacting additional references.
Where do I find discipline-specific work sample guidelines for submission?
Discipline-specific guideline information is located on the CaFE application portal.
What materials do you have for visual art residencies?
Basic hand tools are available but visual artists should anticipate bringing tools and all materials needed for their process. You also can have materials mailed. Studios have heat and A/C but no direct exhaust ventilation. Artists should use only odorless or low odor solvents, or plan to use those materials outdoors. A covered outdoor work area is available for artists working with materials requiring ventilation.
Does Mother's Milk ask artists to donate their artwork?
No, Mother's Milk has no requirement for artists to donate their work as a part of their residency. However, artists are encouraged to share photographs of their residency work and experience. In addition, Mother's Milk may use photographs of residents and/or their artwork for non-commercial promotional purposes in print or online media. Artists retain copyright to their works in perpetuity.
How do I buy groceries or supplies?
We will be happy to take you to the grocery store in your first few days, and in the the future by prior arrangement. You will have the use of a shared bicycle and the closest grocery store is less than two miles away. There isn't an artist supply store in Newton (see question above).
Can I bring my pet, partner, child or friend?
We know it is really difficult to be away from those you love – whether it's your dog / cat / partner / child / friend. But out of concern for allergies and courtesy to one and all, pets of any kind are not permitted in Mother’s Milk facilities. Residents are welcome to invite visitors but they cannot be accommodated for overnight stays; no exceptions will be made. Newton has several hotels or B&Bs.
Where is Mother's Milk located?
Mother's Milk is located at the fringe of Newton, Kansas, a charming community of about 20,000 people and approximately a half hour drive to Wichita, a city of about 400,000. Newton is not far from the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, a 11,000 acre park with trails to explore our unique prairie ecosystem. Newton also has a fabulous YMCA and walking trails, great local bakeries and a number of antique / thrift stores.
What is the best way to get to Newton, Kansas?
By Car: Newton is located in south-central Kansas about 25 miles north of Wichita. It is easily accessible by several major interstates and highways.
By Air, Train, Bus: Newton is approximately 32 miles from Wichita's Eisenhower International Airport (ICT) and 58 miles from the Salina Regional Airport. The Wichita airport is larger and generally provides many more flight options and at lower fares than travel into Salina. Newton is also a stop for Amtrak, with daily trains on the Southwest Chief line (although they do arrive and depart in the middle of the night!). The Greyhound Bus also stops in Newton.
– At this time there is no regular public transportation between Wichita or Salina and Newton. There are car rental services at the airports and in Newton. Mother's Milk currently provides residents with transportation to/from Mother's Milk at the time of arrival and departure - from the Wichita airport or from the Newton Amtrak station. Specifics on utilizing this support is provided upon offer of a residency.
Have other questions?
Send us a note at info@mothersmilkart.com
