AVA a-i-r

Missy StRain selected for July-December 2025 a-i-r

Astoria Visual Arts is pleased to announce that local artist Missy StRain has been selected as our newest Artist-in-Residence. StRain will receive a free studio at the Astoria Studio Collective and discounted art supplies provided by Fine Art Supply. Her studio will be open to the public during Astoria’s Artwalk, offering visitors a chance to meet her and see her unique painting process.

The AVA residency provides StRain with critical space—both physical and mental—to support her professional growth. Previously she was working from a small 2x3-foot desk in her kitchen while balancing remote work and parenting. StRain’s new studio will enable a more formal work/life balance and provide sustained creative momentum.

StRain’s artistic journey began at Boise State University, where she experimented with highly pigmented India ink on semi-transparent frosted acetate—an early exploration that continues to influence her luminous, layered aesthetic. More recently, she’s begun painting on reclaimed LCD television screens, a unique approach that gives her work remarkable depth and vibrancy. “The way the ink builds up in layers gives the final piece a kind of magnified, dimensional feel as if looking through a lens,” she explains.

A turning point in her work came when she responded to a call to depict Astoria’s historic architecture in 2023. “That project launched me in a new direction—documenting local landmarks, bars, and film scenes through a lens that blends realism with an otherworldly perspective,” StRain says. “Incorporating the past into present-day landscapes has deepened the narrative of my work and my connection to this place. The architecture, terrain, and creative community here continue to inspire me.”

Follow her journey on Instagram @messystain.

About the a-i-r Program

Local artists residing in Clatsop or Pacific County may apply. One artist is selected to receive a rent-free studio space at the Astoria Studio Collective, located at 372 10th Street in Astoria, for a period of six months. Application for the residency from January through June is open the previous November. Application for the residency from July through December is open June.

Artists working in any media are eligible to apply.

The AVA a-i-r program is designed to encourage the creative, intellectual, and professional growth of local artists. Finalists are chosen on the basis of need* and merit by an independent selection panel of arts professionals and patrons. Artists who have applied in the past are encouraged to reapply with an updated portfolio and statement reflecting updates and changes. Previously awarded AVA a-i-r artists are eligible to apply again.

Eligibility: Working artists at least 18 years of age and residing full-time within Clatsop or Pacific County. Artists working in all media are eligible to apply. (*) Artists that already have a working studio space may apply, but please note that preference will be given to artists that do not have a studio exclusively used for the purpose of making artwork (i.e., you may make art on your kitchen counter, but that is not considered a professional working studio).

How to Apply:

Send the following information to astoriavisualarts@gmail.com with the subject: “AVA a-i-r submission”:

  • General Information/How to Apply

    Submit an application that includes:

    (1) A short essay that answers the following questions:

    • What project will you be working on during the residency period

    • How will the project benefit your professional development as an artist

    (2) A short bio and resume, if available

    (3) 3 - 5 high-resolution jpg images, including the title, size, medium and date completed for each artwork; for film/video submissions, include samples of work no longer than 5 minutes in length

    Requirements:  Artists are requested (not required) to show their completed work in a joint show at the AVA Gallery at a time to be determined by AVA and the a-i-r. The selected a-i-r is required to open their studio to the public at least 3 of the 6 second Saturday Artwalks to assist with professional development of the artist.

    Length of stay: Six months

    Aid: Selected artists will be provided with a studio in the Astoria Studio Collective building free of charge. Some additional financial help with art supplies and drink/food vouchers may be provided.

    Selection committee: An independent panel of working artists and supporters will serve as the selection committee.

    For questions: please email astoriavisualarts@gmail.com.

Artists receive free studio space on the second floor of the Astoria Studio Collective, 10th and Duane Streets, Astoria.