FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our residency.
Who is eligible for this residency?
The residency is open to Irish and International artists and writers at any stage of their creative journey, from emerging talents to established professionals – provided they are at least 18 years old by the start of the residency.
When are applications reviewed?
Applications are reviewed in the two weeks after each application window closes. Notifications are made to all applicants on the stated notification date. See upcoming dates here.
How many artists and writers are in residence at one time?
A maximum of 4, but usually only two – one visual artist, one writer.
If unsuccessful, can I apply again?
Yes, you can apply as many times as you like.
When is the application deadline?
Chualainn Creative Residency receives applications on the quarter system, roughly aligned with the four Irish seasons. Please carefully note the application windows and deadlines here as you select the residency dates that will be most productive for you.
How long are the residencies? Are the durations flexible?
Residencies are scheduled for 2, 3, or 4 weeks. You select the duration of your residency during the application process. In order to optimize studio utilization we cannot accommodate unique durations outside these increments.
How do I apply?
Applicants are required to submit a CV, an Artist/Writer Statement, a Letter of Intent, and either a Portfolio or a Writing Sample. After selecting the quarter of the year for which they are applying, applicants will specify whether they are seeking a 2-, 3-, or 4-week residency and indicate their preferred dates. Upon submission, applicants will receive an acknowledgment confirming receipt of their application. Award notifications will be issued on the date specified in the Residency Dates and Deadlines calendar. You can apply here.
How much does the Residency Cost?
Chualainn Creative Residency is self-sustaining which is reflected in the fee structure. If you are applying for a grant or bursary to fund your residency, please feel free to contact us to coordinate.
Fees: €735 weekly ($746)
Fees Include:
Private room or apartment
Meals: three freshly prepared, locally sourced, daily. Breakfast, lunch and tea are self serve, but supplied with freshly made breads, salads, dressings, dips, soups, etc. The evening meal is enjoyed as a group unless specified otherwise by prior arrangement.
A private studio
Please note that artists are responsible for bringing their own art supplies. Ship-ahead can be received by prior arrangement. The nearest well supplied art store is in Galway.
Advisory Session Fees
Residencies with Chualainn Creative Residency can either be entirely self-directed or include structured Advisory Sessions. We are fortunate to have access to a select cross section of the visual arts, literary and spoken word thought leaders, educators, and practitioners. Up to three Advisory Sessions per Residency can be arranged.
Once you have selected the dates of your term of residency, please email us at [email protected] for a roster of available Advisors in your discipline during those dates, and a listing of fees. Fees range from €50 – €150 per hour, with each Advisory Session lasting between one and two hours.
During some Residency sessions, guided plein air art and writing sessions are offered. Email for details.
Should I bring my materials with me?
You must bring the materials for your practice with you. Alternatively, you can have them shipped to the studio prior to your arrival by prior arrangement. Contact us at [email protected].
Do You Provide Transport?
If you will be flying to Ireland, it is best to arrive into Dublin Airport, and take the express bus to Galway Coach Station. CityLink has very regular departures. We will collect you in Galway, which is approximately one hour distance. Transportation is strictly by prior arrangement – we require 2 weeks’ notice, minimum. Contact us at [email protected].
We are unable to provide daily travel and transportation for shopping or site seeing. There are bicycles provided for short trips into the village. However, if a member of staff is going out, we will offer participants the opportunity to go along. Additionally, we periodically arrange site seeing or cultural events depending on interest level of the cohort.
How are food and meals provided?
All meals are included in the residency fee. Participants prepare their own breakfasts and lunches from a well-stocked selection of homemade breads, pastas, yogurts, soups, salads, and other essentials. Evening meals are shared as a community, fostering collaboration and meaningful exchanges.
Our menu spans global cuisines, from Irish and Italian to Middle Eastern and Asian, offering both vegetarian and omnivore options. Most dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.
We believe that fresh, hand-crafted meals prepared onsite inspire creativity, enhance well-being, and connect residents to the local culture. Much of our produce, especially in the growing season, comes from our gardens and glasshouse, with other ingredients sourced locally. This sustainable approach celebrates regional heritage and minimizes environmental impact.
What is available in the Studio?
The Chualainn Creative Residency visual arts studio is a private, quiet, purpose-built space for visual arts. Features include:
Studio dimension 32.5 square meter (351 square foot)
Natural ventilation
Natural light /electric light
Entrance door L284.5 cm x 205 cm ( L112 in x H81 in)
Wet sink and counter, hot and cold water
Workbench L206 cm x D 61 cm ( L76 in x D 24 in)
2 folding tables 183 cm ( 6 ft)
2 mobile Work Walls, White (L 8 ft x H 6 ft)
1 painters easel
Open shelving 13.5 linear metres (45 linear feet )
Cement floor
Wifi, power plugs, extension leads
Adjacent kitchen, bathroom, shower
Due to the natural ventilation in the studio, an art practice generating strong fumes cannot be accommodated (e.g. fibre glassing). Visual Artists are required to bring all their own supplies. The nearest comprehensive art store is in Galway. We can accept pre-shipments of materials by prior arrangement. Contact us at [email protected].
The Chualainn Creative Residency writers studio is a private, quiet space for writers. Natural and electric light, comfortable furnishings, writing desk, bookshelves, and printer. Wifi, power plugs, and extension leads provided. Access to kitchen and bathrooms.
How do I get to the Chualainn Creative Residency?
You are welcome to bring your car. We are located at Kilbeg Upper, Clonbur, Co Galway, Ireland Eircode F12Y104. If you will be flying to Ireland, it is best to arrive into Dublin Airport, and take the express bus to Galway Coach Station. CityLink has very regular departures. We will collect you in Galway, which is approximately one hour distance. Transportation is strictly by prior arrangement – we require 2 weeks’ notice, minimum. Contact us at [email protected].
Where will I stay?
We are delighted to offer comfortable and welcoming accommodations during your stay. Depending on your needs, you will be housed in either a private on-site apartment or a private room in our shared artist house.
The Apartment: Situated above the visual arts studio, the apartment provides a peaceful retreat. It includes a bedroom with a double bed (linens are provided) and a cozy sitting room just outside the bedroom—perfect for quiet relaxation and reflection. Downstairs, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen for those who prefer to prepare their own meals, as well as a bathroom with a toilet and shower conveniently located next to the kitchen.
The Private Room in the Artist House: This option offers a private room in a quiet wing of the shared house, typically reserved for Writing Residencies. The room is located near a bathroom with a toilet and shower. Guests have access to the house’s fully equipped kitchen and a warm, communal sitting room—ideal for connecting with fellow residents.
Are laundry facilities available?
Yes, we provide a washer, dryer, and clothesline for participants. Laundry is self-serve, and the washing machine must not be used for art projects, dyes, or felting.
Where is the Closest Village?
Our nearest village is Clonbur, just 3 minutes / 2.1 km away. There you will find 3 pubs, two serving meals, an award winning bakery, a small grocery store, post office, a catholic church, and doctor’s office. For a much larger town, Ballinrobe is 20 minutes /16 km away. Galway is 1 hour/ 50 km.
Is there an artist/writer stipend available?
No, the Chualainn Creative Residency is self-funded and, therefore, unable to offer stipends. However, we welcome applicants who have received residency grants or bursaries. Please contact us if you need assistance arranging the required documentation.
Can I bring a pet?
We regret that no pets of any kind are allowed at the residency.
Where Can Art Materials be purchased?
The nearest well stocked art supply store is Cregal Art in Galway 1 hour/ 50 km. Alternatively, you can have materials shipped to the studio before your arrival by prior arrangement. Contact us at [email protected].
Cregal Art Ltd., Monivea Rd, Galway, H91 VP7V
Can I Bring Guests?
Residency artists and writers are accommodated in private rooms, each featuring a double bed. Additional folding beds can be provided if needed.
You are welcome to have a partner, family member, or guest join you for all or part of your residency as long as the companion is at least 18 years of age. Please note that guests must be self-sufficient and able to occupy themselves while the artist or writer is working. Companion guests will have access to the grounds, buildings (except studios), and meals, just like the residency participant.
The fee for a companion guest is €500 per week ($525). If the companion will be sharing the studio with you, a full residency fee will apply.
Will I need a Visa to attend my residency in Ireland?
Many can travel to Ireland without a visa. Please consult the following website for a comprehensive list of who does and does not require a visa to travel to and stay in Ireland.