Workspace
Changing what it means to "work" in Lower Manhattan
2008-2009 Workspace artist-in-residence Aaron Gilbert's studio
Paul Sepuya discussing works in his studio during a Salon Evening in 2010
Elia Alba's studio during Open Studio Weekend 2010
2010-2011 writer-in-residence Molly Prentiss
Jonathan Allen presents his studio during Open Studio Weekend 2010 / photo: Paul Porter
Writer-in-Residence Willie Perdomo reading at Open Texts during Open Studio Weekend 2009
Kenya (Robinson) hosts visitors in her studio during Open Studio Weekend 2010
Rossana Martinez's studio at Open Studio Weekend 2007 / photo by Lumen Wakoa
Now in its 16th year, Workspace, one of LMCC’s artist programs, is a nine-month studio residency focused on creative process and professional development for emerging visual artists and writers. Through the program’s offerings—which include studio space, studio visits, talks and seminars, access to a network of peers, and public programs—Workspace encourages creative production, professional development, and community building in the early stages of an artist’s or writer’s career. Selected residents are expected to be active in their studio throughout the nine months by using the studio as a space for experimentation and dialogue.
LMCC has been able to address the critical need for affordable studio space in Manhattan by securing and adapting temporarily vacant office space Downtown in partnership with generous real estate owners. Since it’s inception in 1997 at the World Trade Center, Workspace has provided hundreds of artists and writers with studio space in some of the city’s most noted landmarks. Workspace studio locations change frequently, but are always located in Lower Manhattan. (See Past Sessions for locations).
By creating space for artistic production just blocks from Wall Street, the Workspace program changes what it means to "work" in Lower Manhattan.
Studio Space
Private or semi-private studio space, within a larger shared space, with 24/7 access. Individual studio spaces are approximately 150–300 square feet, equipped with a desk, chair, and basic overhead lighting. Electricity and wireless internet are provided. Heat and air conditioning are provided seasonally during regular business hours. (Housing is not provided).
Stipend
A one-time stipend of approximately $1,000 is provided, depending on available funds. (There is NOT a monthly living or housing stipend).
Professional Development
Artists- and writers-in-residence meet weekly as a group Tuesday evenings for Salon. Salon Evenings take different forms, including individual studio visits with arts and literary professionals, workshops on practical issues, artist talks and readings, as well as potluck dinners. See Salon Guests for a complete list of past guests. All artists- and writers-in-residence are required to participate in Salon Evenings each week.
Publicity/Public Programs
Workspace provides opportunities to present work to the general public including presence on LMCC’s website, a mid-session Works-in-Progress: Open Studios, and an end-of-session Open Studio Weekend. Events are well attended and participation is required.
Visiting Artist Program (for Visual Artists Only)
Residents have the opportunity to apply for visiting artist status at partner institutions to gain access to specialized facilities and resources. Harvestworks: Electronic media courses, reduced-rate technical assistance, lab/studio access. New York University, Advanced Media Studio: Inkjet printing, scanning, laser cutting, 3D modeling, courses. School of Visual Arts, MFA Computer Arts Department: Courses, lab/studio access.
Program offerings are subject to change.
