Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there a residency fee?
A: No, the residency is free of charge. However, residents are responsible for their own travel expenses and electricity costs during their stay (approximately MXN 400/month, depending on usage). Electricity must be paid locally at an OXXO convenience store.
Q: Why do residents pay for electricity?
A: There are two reasons:
Electricity bills must be paid in person in Mexico and cannot be handled remotely by the organizer. We believe in encouraging mindful energy use, in line with the residency's ecological values.
Q: What utilities and infrastructure are available at the residency house?
A: The house has:
Electricity
Wi-Fi (Note: connectivity can be unreliable due to Tulum’s unique infrastructure challenges — the town is rapidly growing but still developing reliable internet networks, especially in more remote or nature-surrounded areas.)
Filtered drinking water upon arrival — residents are responsible for getting refills themselves during their stay (available at nearby local shops or delivery services)
A comfortable indoor/outdoor living and working space nestled between the tropical forest and the beach
⚠️ Please do not throw toilet paper or any objects into the toilet. Use the bin provided to help protect the plumbing system and local water ecology.
Q: What is the focus of the residency?
A: The residency focuses on: Solo creation and deep reflection; Engagement with nature, indigenous craft, and healing; Exploring the intersections of creativity, ecology, and inner transformation. It is not structured around networking or multiple concurrent residents, but rather offers a quiet space for one artist at a time to listen, create, and connect.
Q: Can I connect with the local community during my stay?
A: Absolutely. You are welcome to be introduced to: Local artisans, Mayan cultural stewards, healers, musicians, and nonprofit workers; Grassroots initiatives focused on ecology, craft, and community well-being
You may also be invited to collaborate with:
🕊 Casa de Oración Camino al Cielo
A church founded by migrant workers in Tulum’s Invisible Zone. Residents may offer educational workshops or art exchanges to underserved children and families in the community.
Q: Who is the residency for?
A: Artists, researchers, and healing practitioners from all disciplines who are: Drawn to ecological and spiritual inquiry; Open to simple living in a tropical environment; Respectful of indigenous knowledge systems and local communities; Interested in exploring a non-commercial, mindful approach to art-making. We especially welcome members of the Asian diaspora and artists seeking to build bridges between cultures.
Q: Can I bring my partner, child, or a guest with me during the residency?
A: The residency is designed as a space for focused, independent creative work and deep engagement with the environment and community. For this reason, we are unable to accommodate children or dependents during the residency period.
Residents may request to bring a partner or short-term guest for a portion of their stay, which will be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on program capacity and timing. Guests must be respectful of the contemplative nature of the space, and additional utility costs may apply.
Q: Are there any extra costs for bringing a guest?
A: Yes, additional accommodation or utility costs may apply. Guests are also expected to respect the quiet, reflective nature of the residency environment.
Q: Can I have a short-term visitor during my residency?
A: Short-term visits (1–2 nights) may be possible with prior approval. We ask that residents notify the program in advance so we can ensure the space continues to serve everyone’s needs.
Q: Are art materials or supplies provided during the residency?
A: Residents are expected to bring or source their own materials.
General art supplies (such as acrylic paints, brushes, sketchbooks, basic tools, etc.) are available at a local art supply store in Tulum and through Mexican Amazon.
If your practice requires specialized or hard-to-find materials, we strongly recommend that you bring them with you or arrange shipping in advance. Happy to discuss any material concerns.
If you’re working with natural or found materials or interested in collaborating with local craftspeople, we’re happy to help facilitate those connections.
