ART IN NATURE
9-MONTH Research RESIDENCY
The Art in Nature jury will grant one nine-month Research Residency to a creative professional whose practice does not require a traditional, physical studio space. The recipient will have full land access to conduct their work.
This residency culminates with the annual Art in Nature Fundraiser and Exhibition Openings. We use this prominent, ticketed event to celebrate the resident's accomplishments. The gathering attracts arts advocates, collectors, curators, and regional supporters.
While the Research Resident is welcome to take part in the year-end showcase, presenting a formal exhibition or presentation at the conclusion of the season is optional. Either way, their accomplishment of completing the program will be formally recognized and celebrated.
DETAILS
Eligibility: Artists and creative professionals in any discipline are welcome to apply.
Location: Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve property access (No Studio)
Studio Days and Hours: DAY USE ONLY—Monday - Saturday, from sunrise to sunset. Sundays are closed to residents for regular work, except for official, scheduled public events like the June opening.
Residency Duration: Thursday, October 1, 2026 - Saturday, July 3, 2027
Engagement: Not required to engage with garden goers.
Exhibition, Demonstration, or Presentation: The Art in Nature Exhibitions, Fundraiser, and public Free Day take place at the end of the season as highly curated events. Research residents are NOT required to participate. However, you are welcome to take part in these events and plan your exhibition, demonstration, or presentation to take place outside in the Studio Garden or in the open-air Amphitheater.
Artwork that cannot be left outdoors will only be on display during the public event days. However, physical projects that are durable enough to withstand the weather have the option to remain on display for our daily garden visitors until July 3, 2027.
Questions: We are happy to clarify details or offer support on your application before the deadline on August 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Please email taftresidency@gmail.com, and your inquiry will be directed to the appropriate team member. Because we operate with a small staff, we kindly request that you thoroughly review the full application and the Residency FAQ before reaching out. Our team will make every effort to respond to your questions in a timely manner. Responses after 12:00 PM on August 5 are not guaranteed.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL APPLICANTS
To be considered, applicants MUST have visited Taft Gardens in person within the last 3 years. We ask that you walk the Gardens and read our Mission Statement before applying to any Art-in-Nature Residency. Applicants will be disqualified if they have not met this requirement.
Propose a project that is inspired by or utilizes some specific aspect of the Taft property (see Residency FAQ for more details).
Live within Ventura County or Santa Barbara County.
Be over the age of 21 by the start of the residency season.
Not be enrolled in an academic program during the residency season.
Provide your own transportation, equipment, materials, and funding (no housing or stipends are available).
Be a steward of the Gardens and respect each visitor's experience by maintaining a tranquil environment (no loud music, power tools, or unscheduled gatherings).
Be willing to be photographed, filmed, and/or interviewed for the Taft Gardens website and archive.
Provide digital copies of your art, writing, music, or other work samples for the Taft Gardens website and archive (coming soon).
Donate 20% of any work sold on the property of Taft Gardens during the Residency.
SUPPORTING MATERIALS AND DOCUMENTATION OF WORK
In the application you will be asked to include a link to your website, social media, and/or any specific projects that you would like us to review.
Please do NOT Include or Email: Images, videos, audio attachments, resumes, or letters of reference. These will not be reviewed.
SCHEDULE
Application opens: June 15, 2026
Application due: August 5, 2026 at 11:59pm
Applicants will be notified of results by: September 1, 2026
2026/27 Residencies begin: October 1, 2026
Art in Nature Fundraiser and Exhibition Opening: TBA
Free Daytime Exhibition Opening: TBA
Residency Season Ends: July 3, 2027
For further questions about the Art in Nature Residency Program or application process email taftresidency@gmail.com.
Application link goes live on June 15, 2026
A Google account is required to complete the form.
Your Donation will help us develop and grow our Arts Programming