Biolumina Project:
Artist Residency

We offer an immersive residency program year-round, with artists selecting their preferred month based on availability. The residency provides 2-4 week stays for selected artists, offering on-site accommodation, studio space, and a bicycle to explore the island.

Nestled in the Villa Boriquén area, north of Vieques, Puerto Rico, Casa Mi Rey Estate sits atop a mountain, surrounded by 7,000 square meters of lush land, providing a peaceful retreat just a 15-minute walk from the beach. The living and studio spaces are rustic and designed as open-plan areas, without air conditioning, fostering an intimate connection with nature. This setting offers artists the time and space to reflect, create, and experience the estate in its purest and most undisturbed form.

Artists have the freedom to pursue self-directed projects, with the opportunity to collaborate with the Foundation on talks, workshops, and events designed to foster cross-disciplinary dialogue and build connections with the local community. The estate is equipped with Wi-Fi, a wood workshop, and a projector for creative use.

Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
Residency Period: 2026

Two people are walking through a dense forest trail at Sugar Mills in Vieques, Puerto Rico, surrounded by lush green foliage and sunlight filtering through the trees.
Scenic view of a tropical beach with clear blue sky, vibrant ocean, sandy shore, rocky coastline, and a paved walkway with a white railing. Malecon in Vieques, Puerto Rico

In A Nutshell

    • Contemporary visual artists

    • Performance, video, and land artists
      Artists inspired by nature and cultural identity

    • Collaborative and community-driven proposals

    • Studio space and accommodation in Vieques

    • Opportunity to present work in a curated group exhibition at Cundeamor’s Gallery

    • Networking with local art collectors

    • Engagement with the local community through workshops and open studios

    • Make a $30 donation (If you can)

    • Submit a portfolio (PDF format)

    • Artist statement and project proposal (500 words max)

    • CV or resume

    • Link to website or social media (if available)

    • Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by the Foundation, followed by a review process with the Advisory Board. Successful applicants will receive written confirmation of their residency by December each year.

  • After their residency, all artists are invited to leave a lasting impression by donating a piece of their work to the Casa Mi Rey collection. While this is most tangible for visual artists, every donation represents a unique contribution to the space. These donated works are displayed throughout Casa Mi Rey, creating a visual narrative of past residents' experiences and creative journeys. The collection is a growing asset, which can be sold over time to fund future residencies. Additionally, artists can leave a more enduring legacy by creating a fruit garden or land art, which integrates the natural surroundings into the long-term sustainability of the estate.

FAQs

How will I get to Fundación Casa Mi Rey?
We offer pick-up and drop-off services from Vieques Airport or the ferry terminal for all artists in residence at the Biolumina Project. Due to Casa Mi Rey Estate’s remote location, accessing off-site locations without transportation can be challenging. Many past residents have appreciated the flexibility of having their own car, though we also provide a bike for local exploration.

What equipment do you have?
Our workshop has various tools. However, there are no technicians on-site, so residents should have prior experience using the workshop facilities independently.

Can I come with my family?
Casa Mi Rey Estate is an adult-only retreat. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate families at this time.

Will I have to share a studio?
No, each residency is for one artist per month, meaning you will have your own private studio space during your stay. However, if you apply as a group of two, you will share the space. The studio is an open-plan area styled like a loft, with a sofa bed and hammock available for sleeping. Collaboration will require flexibility as you will share both the work area and sleeping arrangements.

What is living in the residency like?
The living conditions are rustic and charming, with no air conditioning. The island climate can be hot during the day, but the evenings are cool and breezy. During your stay, you'll experience the simplicity and beauty of a minimalist lifestyle. The accommodations include an outdoor shower, a small portable kitchen, and a microwave, all set in a studio designed to connect you with nature. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the little things—whether it's the breathtaking starry skies, the refreshing island breezes, or the dream-like views surrounding the property. Light clothing and a sense of adventure are recommended for fully immersing yourself in this authentic experience.

What does ‘Leaving a Legacy’ mean?
At the end of their residency, all artists are asked to donate a work to the Casa Mi Rey collection. This gesture contributes to a growing collection of artworks displayed throughout Casa Mi Rey, creating a visual history of past residents and their connection to the space. The donation can be a physical artwork or other artistic contributions, such as planting a fruit garden or creating land art, leaving a lasting impact on the estate.

COSTS AND FEES

Do all artists pay the application fee?
Fundación Casa Mi Rey charges a $30 application fee to cover administrative costs. However, we offer a limited number of fee waivers each year for artists from low socio-economic backgrounds or those fleeing conflict. Please email info@casamirey.com before the application deadline if you require a fee waiver.

What is included in the residency?
The residency includes accommodation in Marco Caridad’s studio at Casa Mi Rey, private studio space, and access to our facilities, including a wood workshop, Wi-Fi, a hammock, and a bike for exploring the island. Please note that these offerings are reviewed annually and may be updated based on the program's needs.

What is not included in the residency?
We do not cover travel costs, living expenses, food, materials, or insurance. Artists are responsible for these costs during their stay.

What other costs should I expect?
Residents are responsible for their own food. It is also recommended (but not necessary) that you rent a car during your stay, so please consider this when budgeting for your residency.

FURTHER INFO

Access
Casa Mi Rey Estate is situated on a mountain in a rural area with uneven terrain. If you need help accessing the property or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are working to improve our accessibility information and appreciate any feedback via email at info@casamirey.com.

Covid Policy
For the safety of all staff and residents, we ask that all artists and their guests be fully vaccinated before arrival.