Application FAQs
Do I have to identify as a queer woman to apply?
No, Velvetpark’s Residency is open to anyone identifying as LGBTQ+. While Vp has been historically dedicated to queer women, lesbians, and those identifying as women, our residency is open to anyone on the spectrum of queer, gay male, bisexual, lesbian, non-binary, and transgender—male or female.
What type of artist or writer can apply?
This Residency is open to both writers (winter/spring) and visual artists (summer/fall) alternately on a bi-yearly basis. This is a project oriented application, which means applicant must propose a project to commence and/or complete during their term.
Visual artists using any medium/s are invited to apply. Bear in mind the studio is limited in size, 114 sq ft (14’x 8′ ft), so the size of your work must fit within this space. Additionally, the studio is not sound proof, so anyone working with sound must use headphones or maintain low volume.
Writers in any creative genre are invited to apply, fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, etc.
What if I work with a partner?
Indicate one individual as your main contact in the first portion of the application. Include both your names on your resume, project proposal, and other supporting materials.
How long is the residency?
The residency is for a 6 month term, as indicated in the application. Be aware of dates & deadlines:
Application period for writers —Winter/Spring Residency 2024
TBD
Application period for visual artists—Summer/Fall Residency 2023;
March 13th, 2023 – May 5th, 2023
Applications will open soon
Are there any costs attached to this residency?
No, You are awarded the studio free of any costs. However, you are required to pay a $50 key deposit for access to the building and your private studio, which will be returned to you when you drop off keys at they end of your term. Visual artists will have a $100 deposit which includes keys & clean walls.
Can I live here?
No, however, you are welcome to spend part of the week in the studio. You must have a primary residence.
Do I have to live in New York or be a US citizen to apply?
No, however, as as per the above, you will have to find and provide for your own living accommodations.
How will the Velvetpark resident be selected?
Applications will be selected by committee comprised of professionals in each given field.
Confirmation Upon Acceptance.
You will have 7 days to confirm your acceptance, you may ask for an extension of up to 14 days, but you must communicate with Velvetpark regarding your situation before acceptance period ends. If you decline or we don’t hear back from you, your slot will go to another finalist.
What is required of me if I am awarded the studio?
You are expected to use the studio as per your project proposal as indicated in your application. We understand projects can shift and change in process, however, you are expected to produce a creative work/s, which will be featured on the Vp website and publishing options at the end of your term. Runners up to the award will also be given the opportunity to have a featured digital post/s on the Vp site.
What are the specs and access to the studio?
You will have 24/7 access to the studio, in a private secure building. Studio space is 114 sq ft––14′ x 8′, with 12′ ceilings, large 6′ x 6′ ft window, AC/Heat, and lofted storage area. Please Note: Studio is located on 2nd floor walk-up of converted factory building. There is a freight elevator access but no passenger elevator.
What other amenities are there?
The studio comes equipped with ac/heat and hi-speed wifi. Also, you will have access to common areas; lounge, kitchens and restrooms. The studio comes furnished with the essentials; lighting, desks, chairs.
Where is the Studio Located?
Located within Crown Studios in the neighborhood of Crown and Prospect Heights in Brooklyn, New York. A 10-minute walk from the Brooklyn Museum, Grand Army Plaza, and Prospect Park. Near Trains A/C/B/Q/2/3/4/5 (10 – 15 min walk).
What is Crown Studios?
Crown Studios is a 6,000 sq ft floor of twelve working artists, writers, and creators. All are paying residents who are professionals in their fields.
What is the relationship between Crown Studios and Velvetpark?
As a charitable donation, Crown Studios LLC has offered the studio space to Velvetpark Media Inc. 501(c)3 to run our residency program.
Are there any Covid-19 Restrictions?
Yes, you will be required to abide by any state/city guidelines on safety precautions, in addition to rules followed at Crown Studios. Crown Studios has so far been a Covid-free environment. You should wear a mask in common areas such as kitchen and restrooms and limit the amount of visitors to your studio to one at a time. All visitors must wear masks. Please note that proof of vaccination is required.
