BECOME THE NEXT "STAR"
SPACE TAKING ARTIST RESIDENCY APPLICATION INFORMATION
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Space Taking Artist Residency (STAR) program?
The Space Taking Artist Residency (STAR) is an annual residency program, powered by Fresh Arts, that offers Houston-based artists the opportunity to experiment with new ideas, develop them into large-scale projects, and bring them to life for public audiences with Fresh Arts’ institutional guidance and support.
What does the residency provide?
Each selected artist or group is awarded:
- 24-hour access to a 2,500-square-foot gallery space in Winter Street Studios at Sawyer Yards for the entire residency period (6 weeks)
- The freedom to transform and activate the space with programs and experiences that engage the local community in new and innovative ways of your choice, relating to your proposed project themes or concepts
- A stipend of $3,600 to support project costs
- One-on-one mentorship from a previous STAResident
When does the residency take place?
Fresh Arts will host two (2) Space Taking Artist Residencies in 2027:
- The first residency period will be active: MARCH 15 to APRIL 25 (6 weeks)
- The second residency period will be active: JULY 19 to AUGUST 30 (6 weeks)
Applicants may indicate their preferred residency period, though they may not be guaranteed.
Who is eligible to apply?
- STAR welcomes emerging and mid-career artists of ALL disciplines and backgrounds
- Individual artists or collaborative teams
- Must be based in the Greater Houston area
Is there a fee to apply?
There are no fees to apply or to be accepted
What kind of project can I submit in my proposal?
We welcome project proposals that you may not typically see welcomed in more traditional exhibition spaces. Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that feel ambitious, experimental, and innovative. Past proposals have stood out for their bold and original ideas, thoughtful programming, and commitment to meaningful community interaction + engagement. Click here to browse projects presented through the last six years of the STAR program.
When is the application open?
The 2027 STAR application is open from September 14, 2026 and to November 23, 2026. For the most up-to-date details, please follow us on social media or join our email list to receive notifications directly to your inbox.
2025-2026 INFO SESSION
Watch our recorded info session from last year’s round to learn more. Still have questions? Contact: programs@fresharts.org