The Tolovana Arts Colony is seeking aspiring artists for a two-month sculpture-based residency in on a 25-acre homestead idyllic, rural southwest Washington.

Room, board and materials will be provided to a qualified, motivated and self-starting artist. This sculpture-forward residency provides access to studio spaces including ceramic, metal/welding and woodwork, as well as a wood-fired kiln.

Residents will be provided a cabin and access to the studios of working artists John and Robin Gumaelius. Shown at galleries throughout the Northwest, the Gumaelius whimsical, wide-ranging sculptures incorporate ceramics, steel and wood carving techniques. Both John and Robin have Bachelor's degrees in fine arts. Robin holds a Masters of Fine Arts from Ohio State University, where she also taught as an adjunct professor.

Applicants should find inspiration in the setting--a riverside homestead, complete with three studios (ceramic, metal/welding, wood carving) and surrounded by wild nature, ornate gardens full of flowers, fruits and vegetables, and artistic installations that converse with the landscape.

The residency is an opportunity to unplug from the stresses of modern, technological life and focus singularly on one's craft.

While John and Robin are happy to offer advice, guidance and tutorials--not only on certain tools and processes but interacting with the business of art-- this residency is designed for a self-starter. It is not a guided workshop nor apprentice study. Applicants will be expected to establish a goal and work diligently to achieve it.

John and Robin Gumaelius are proud to offer this residency after similar opportunities inspired, shaped and supported their own artistic career.

The Gumaelius family are familiar with opening their homestead, having hosted numerous foreign exchange students as well as other artists.

Terms of the residency--such as time of year, duration of stay, focus of craft--are flexible in some cases, though a commitment to regular production and a clear plan of action is required.

August and September are lovely months to soak in the sunshine, warmth and enjoy the fruits of the land. Spring is another ideal. Winter months are possible too, but residents must be prepared for clouds, rain and shorter days. But for some, this environment can be ideal for focusing singularly on one's creative work.

Prospective residents shall be aware of the rural setting. The nearest towns are 35 minutes and 45 minutes by car (Raymond and Aberdeen, WA., respectively.) The "town" of Brooklyn, WA., contains only a tavern, grange hall and school. There is no grocery store or services in Brooklyn.

Three meals a day will be provided, but residents are welcome to bring food and eat on their own. Smoking is not permitted.

There is no cell phone service on the property. Internet access is limited to the studio area, and not available in the cabin.

The Tolovana Arts Colony is committed to equity, welcoming people from diverse cultures, backgrounds and experiences, and acknowledges that stepping away from day-to-day life to spend extended time in nature may be a more complex undertaking for some. Site visits and meeting the hosts is encouraged before embarkation of residency.

Applicants should prepare a cover letter, work samples, a detailed plan of action including goals, and a resume.

Qualified applicants will then communicate with the hosts to establish a time and duration of stay.

Email applications and any questions to: tolovanaartscolony@gmail.com.

The residency is open until filled.