FAQ - Designer Residencies
Q: Do design residencies only get looked at in January?
There is no deadline for designer residencies. You may apply at any time. It can take us up to 30 days to evaluate the application, so do plan ahead if you can.
We understand designers may be pursuing specific time constrained opportunities themselves and we will work to evaluate as soon as possible. We also do not have fixed dates when these must be conducted and so are happy to work with the applicant on options.
Q: What types of designers and projects are you looking for?
Really, we just want to work on exciting products and installations and we are game for about anything properly ambitious.
We expect that means we will probably hear about three different types of applications:
1. Trade designers that wish to make new mass produced items that contain hand blown, cast or fused glass.
2. Commissioned designers that wish to make one of a kind works for private or public installation.
3. Emerging designers just finishing school and looking for help with their first commissions or products
Q: When does the residency happen and how long are they.
We have multiple options this year. The full immersion (2 week) residencies will run August 14th - 28th. All other shorter durations residency options are flexible and can be scheduled throughout the year. When in doubt, ask us. We have flexibility.
Q: Do you provide housing?
We do not. But we have negotiated very steep discounts at local hotels.
Q: What are your selection criteria for design residencies?
All artist employees at MGW vote on which designers receive residencies.
Our criteria is: excitement about the work to be completed, and the potential impact on the designer's career.
Q: What does the designer actually get and what do I have to pay for?
We expect the application to include a proposal describing a work to be completed. MGW will help contribute to that work with design, prototyping and creation of the finished glass components to contribute to that work..
Our contribution includes the studio, artists and glass supplies. Additional molds, components, and materials will need to be provided by the designer.
Finally, we have a pay-it-forward model. Resident artists leave a work(s) that can be sold to fund future artist residencies. We would expect some type of similar donation from designer residents.
Q: Is there a cost to apply for a residency?
Yes, $25.