Call for Artists: Stelo Gallery Studio Residency Application

Applications Due: Sunday, October 12
Residency Dates: Late October – January 15, 2026
Location: Stelo Arts Gallery, Downtown Portland, OR

Stelo invites local artists to apply for a 2.5-month residency at our Park Block storefront space in downtown Portland. This residency offers free studio spaces within a shared environment and the opportunity to build community, create new work, and engage the public through artist-led programming. In addition to dedicated studio space, residents will have access to a communal area designed for casual gatherings, conversation, and public programming. We’re looking for 4 to 5 dedicated artists ready to commit time to their practice, share space with other creatives, and participate in collaborative programming.

We welcome creatives working in any medium — please note that the space cannot support toxic materials, poorly ventilated processes, or consistently loud tools/equipment (see more below).

What Artists Receive

• A dedicated studio space (1 of 4–5 in a shared environment)

• Access to a communal area for relaxing, connecting, or hosting events

• Guidance and support from Stelo staff for public programming

• Opportunities to share your work through open studios, talks, or events

We’re Looking For Artists who are:

• Actively working in their practice and need dedicated space

• Excited to be in community with others

• Open to sharing their work and ideas with the public

We welcome artists from all disciplines and backgrounds, especially those whose voices have been historically underrepresented in the arts.

Please Note:

• The studio environment cannot accommodate toxic materials or processes requiring special ventilation (e.g., spray paint, resin, solvents, etc.).

• Loud tools or sound-based practices may be limited due to the shared nature of the space and building sound ordinances (quiet hours between 10 PM – 7 AM).

• If your practice includes sound, performance, or tool-based work, please indicate how you will manage volume and timing.

Residency Commitments

• Attend an in-person orientation (Oct 22 or 23)

• Spend at least 5 hours per week in the studio

• Host one public program or event, with support from Stelo (e.g. open studio, movie night, talk)

• Keep weekly open studio hours for public engagement

• Sign a short Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) confirming commitment

• Follow all community use guidelines, including those related to materials and sound

Questions?

Visit steloarts.org or contact us at info@steloarts.org