Work-Exchange Residency Program
1st Edition – 2026–2027
Studio Ardilla, ceramic studio in Genoa founded by artist Clara Holt, invites all interested individuals to apply for the first edition of its *Work-Exchange Residency Program*.
This program offers up to two months of accommodation, free access to the ceramic studio, and 8 hours of technical guidance per month in exchange for assistance with various tasks that support the daily operations of the studio.
To apply, please meet the requirements listed below and send your completed application to: claraholt.ceramics@gmail.com
Download the application form here.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The Work-Exchange Residency is ideal for ceramic artists who are interested in spending time in a beautiful seaside setting, working a few hours a day while also having free studio time to develop their personal practice.
Nestled between the Ligurian Sea and the foothills of the Apennines, Genoa is a historic maritime city in northern Italy with a long and fascinating past. Its coastline opens onto some of the most stunning waters in the Mediterranean, while the city itself boasts one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval centers. Winding alleys, grand Renaissance palaces, and bustling squares—all recognized by UNESCO—tell the story of its seafaring heritage. At the same time, Genoa’s culinary traditions, including its iconic pesto, golden focaccia, and fresh seafood, offer a taste of genuine Italian culture.
Studio Ardilla is located in Genova Nervi, a peaceful seaside district known for its elegant old villas, lush parks, and artistic spirit. The area is dotted with small beaches and overlooks the sea via a scenic walkway that invites slow strolls and morning runs alike. With its calm atmosphere and natural beauty, Nervi provides the ideal setting for creative focus and quiet reflection—an often-overlooked treasure along the Italian Riviera.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Studio Ardilla provides selected residents with free accommodation, use of the studio, and 8 hours of personalized technical guidance per month to carry out a personal ceramic project—or simply to train and develop their work.
In return, residents are expected to contribute to the functioning of Studio Ardilla by taking care of the studio space and working 20 hours per week, which may include:
* Producing medium to large ceramic pieces (either wheel-thrown or mold-cast)
* Helping keep the studio tidy and organized
* Preparing glazes
* Assisting with production and studio upkeep
Tasks are assigned based on the current needs of the studio and the skills of each resident.
DURATION & CONDITIONS
Residency length: between 3 weeks and 2 months, to take place between 2026 and 2027. Start and end dates will be agreed upon between the resident and Studio Ardilla.
Residents are required to work 20 hours per week, typically spread across five days (e.g., 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.), with two days off (usually Saturday and Sunday).
The program includes (costs covered by Studio Ardilla):
- A private room with bathroom
- Full access to the ceramic studio. Applicants must already be competent in the techniques they plan to use.
- 8 hours of personalized technical guidance per month
The use of the studio will be tailored based on each resident’s level of experience and project needs.
Materials for personal production must be covered by the resident, as well as any firings exceeding a previously agreed-upon quantity.
Note: There is no kitchen in the studio. Shared kitchen use in the main house may be arranged with specific timing agreements.
All other costs (materials, transport, food, medical needs, additional workshops, etc.) must be covered by the resident.
PROFILE & SKILLS
Studio Ardilla is looking for residents who:
* Are collaborative and willing to contribute to shared tasks
* Have good manual skills
* Are open to learning and working with others
* Have experience in ceramics, ideally:
· Creating medium/large pieces on the wheel or using molds (with mold-making done during the first week)
· (Optional but recommended) Some experience with glaze production
· Have a personal project to work on
· Are 24 years or older
· Speak advanced English, Spanish, or Italian
Studio use will be limited to techniques in which the resident already has experience.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Each application must include the following documents in PDF format.
1. Completed application form (download here)
2. Motivation letter: explaining why you are interested in a residency at Studio Ardilla and what you hope to gain
3. CV
4. Portfolio of previous work — especially photos and descriptions of medium to large ceramic pieces the applicant can produce confidently
SELECTION & RESULTS
The selection process includes a review of applications and an interview for shortlisted candidates. The timeline may vary depending on the number of applicants.
Interview invitations and final results will be communicated via email.