AVA a-i-r

Amelia Santiago

In Residence July 1 - December 30, 2023

Astoria Visual Arts welcomes our newest artist-in-residence, Amelia Santiago, a multi-disciplinary artist from Astoria. Over the next six months, Santiago will make artwork in a rent free studio space located in the Astoria Studio Collective, where she plans to work on monotypes and portraiture for a group show coming up at Imogen Gallery in November.

Whether it is painting, printmaking or sculpting in wool, Santiago has always been driven and inspired by the human form. Since moving to Astoria six years ago, however, she also finds her sketchbooks have become full of historic homes. Capturing the character and personalities of each one, she has begun to think of them almost like people and adores their distinctive details and individual mystique.

Part of Santiago’s residency will include continuing to develop this body of work of monotypes of Astoria’s historic homes.

The AVA a-i-r program is supported by the members of Astoria Visual Arts and the generosity of community businesses Astoria Coffeehouse & Bistro and Fine Art Supply.

About AVA a-i-r / Call for Artists

The AVA a-i-r is designed to encourage the creative, intellectual, and professional growth of local artists. One residency finalist will be chosen on the basis of merit by an independent selection panel of professionals in the arts and arts patrons. The selected artist will be provided with a studio in the Astoria Studio Collective building, located at 372 10th Street, free of charge for the six-month residency period. Artists who have applied in the past are welcome to reapply with an updated portfolio and statement reflecting updates and changes. Application details are below. The AVA a-i-r program was established in 2015 and has supported 34 artists over the years.

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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 20 minutes in length

Eligibility: Local artists at least 18 years of age, living within Clatsop and Pacific counties.

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 small 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.