Explore, Create, Connect in the Heart of Houston
La RucheHTX welcomes artists worldwide to apply for our residency program, an authentic and inspiring space situated in the cultural heart of Houston, Texas.
The Essence of La RucheHTX:
A walk-up residency offering two studios, exhibition spaces, and a communal kitchen—La RucheHTX is designed to be a serene yet vibrant haven for artists seeking a genuine creative experience.
What We Offer:
- Flexible Residency Duration: Choose between one, two, or three-month programs.
- Live-in Option: Studio 2 applicants enjoy living quarters and pre-set exhibitions throughout the residency.
- No Medium Limits: We embrace diverse projects leading to impactful exhibitions and experimentation.
How to Apply:
Submit the following at the link on www.rubyprojects.xyz
1. Portfolio: Showcase history of works.
2. CV/Resume: Share your artistic journey and achievements and provide a concise overview of your artistic career.
3. Artist Statement: Describe your creative process, techniques, and conceptual development.
4. Residency Proposal: Outline your proposed focus during the residency and the work you’d like to exhibit.
5. Intent of Study: Share your goals, expectations, and considerations for your time at La RucheHTX. Please also specify the top 3 dates and timeframe (1-3 months)you would like to participate in the residency program.
6. RFQ for Exhibition: Present your plan for a gallery show tailored to RUBY Projects/La Ruche spaces.
7. References: Share contact information for three references who can vouch for your artistic journey.
8. Images of 10 Works: Showcase ten pieces created in the last two years.
9. International Applicants: If applying from outside the U.S., submit proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. and a tax processing number issued by the IRS.
Expectations for Artists:
- Active Participation: Be present at all scheduled exhibitions, programming, and partner open houses during your residency.
- Collaboration: Embrace collaborative projects with fellow residents, RUBY Projects, and the La RucheHTX community.
- Documentation: Document all work created during the residency and contribute to documentation and marketing efforts.
- Studio Presence: Commit to working in your studio at least three days a week.
La RucheHTX Benefits:
- Full access to our gallery for an exhibition of your choosing.
- Marketing through RUBY Projects social & web channels.
- Means of accepting payment for sold artwork.
- A reception for your exhibition.
- Access to La Ruche facilities, including studios, kitchen, and exhibition spaces.
Apply by February 1st for first round consideration. Residencies begin Feb 15th, and thereafter begin two weeks after the due date of applications listed below:
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- March 6th 2024 (2nd Round)
- April 10th 2024 (3rd Round)
- May 15th 2024(4th Round)
Visit [La RucheHTX Application Portal] to submit your application and join a community of artists dedicated to authentic artistic expression.
ABOUT
At La RucheHTX and RUBY Projects, we believe in the transformative power of art and the necessity of providing artists with accessible spaces to cultivate and showcase their creativity. Our mission is clear—to break down barriers in the art world and make exhibition opportunities affordable and inclusive. Inspired by the historic La Ruche in Paris, known as “The Hive,” we aim to infuse Houston’s cultural landscape with vibrant artistic energy.
La RucheHTX is more than a residency though; it’s a community where artists from diverse backgrounds converge to explore, create, and connect. We value freedom of expression and encourage artists to push boundaries, fostering an environment where visual, physical, and documental practice coalesce into meaningful exhibitions.
Our commitment to accessibility extends to our application process. We welcome artists from various disciplines and backgrounds, emphasizing a transparent and inclusive selection process. The selection committee, comprising Houston’s art professionals, ensures a rich tapestry of voices.
Once in residence, artists enjoy not only studio access and potential exhibition opportunities but also a supportive network. Collaborative projects, shared studios, and active participation in community events are encouraged, creating an atmosphere of shared growth and creativity.
While LaRucheHTX is not a free or stipend residency, costs for exhibitions, live-in opportunity, and curatorial guidance, marketing, and programming have been included in the cost for the residency. As standard, costs per month are $1350.00 due typically at the beginning of the program. Artists are also encouraged to sell work out of their residency studios at no financial benefit to RUBY Projects or La RucheHTX programming, keeping in mind the requirement for exhibition of work produced during the residency. However, La RucheHTX is meant to create a space for advancement and inclusion; if you are unable to meet the financial obligations of the residency, please reach out to RUBY Projects for information on financial aid, grants, or other opportunities.
Even as a short term residency, La RucheHTX is deeply rooted in the diverse Houston arts scene, offering emerging talents a platform to shine. Our intentional focus on local talent underscores our commitment to connecting Houston to the global art stage.
Expectation of Involvement:
Artists at La RucheHTX are expected to actively engage with the community and the residency program. This includes:
- Attendance: Artists should be present at all scheduled exhibitions and programming during their residency, including partner open houses and community events.
- Collaboration: Collaborative projects and interactions with fellow residents, the environtment, RUBY Projects, and other La Ruche artists are encouraged to foster a sense of community and shared growth.
- Documentation: Artists are expected to document all work created during the residency program and actively contribute to documentation and marketing efforts for RUBY Projects.
- Studio Presence: Artists commit to working in their studios, fostering a visible and engaged presence at La RucheHTX.
- Participation in Public Hours: Applicants must be able to fulfill a program requirement of working in their studios for two days per week during La RucheHTX public hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Join us at La RucheHTX, where artistic visions flourish, and artists find a home within the heart of Houston’s cultural landscape. Together, redefine the possibilities of artistic expression and make art truly accessible to all.