

ARTIST IN
RESIDENCE
ARTIST RESIDENCY

Studio Luce is an artist-in-residence (AIR) program based in Guatemala. Here we offer four residency options:
-
Writing Residency, open call for 3 writers to come and work on their manuscripts for a duration of 7 nights.
-
Artist Residency open to all disciplines who will stay for the duration of 12 nights.
-
Private Retreats where the artist rents Studio Luce and to stay in Villa Rosa to work on their art, at a discounted rate.
-
Artist invites, where we invite artists we love and admire to come stay at Studio Luce for reduced costs so they can work on their art.
Add a Title
2025 CALENDER:
Artist Residency: March 23–April 6
-
Deadline Jan 23
Writing Residency: May 15–23
-
Deadline Feb 28
Artist Residency: Aug 10–24
-
Deadline April 10
Writing Residency: Oct 23-31
-
Deadline June 24
WHAT TO EXPECT:
Studio Luce is a self-funded, self-directed residency. We give artists and writers the freedom to manage their own schedules, trusting them to use their time as they see fit. We believe artists know how they work best, and our role is to support that. This is a very hands-off residency where you, as the creative, determine how best to use your time.
We don’t require a finished piece at the end of your stay, understanding that this residency is a small part of your process. Deadlines can stifle creativity, but we're always here for check-ins and conversations, offering insights into El Paredón and Guatemala.
While the work is up to you, we encourage collaboration and meals with fellow artists and interaction with the local community. We’ll arrange a few local activities and help foster connections during your stay. There will not be a Studio Luce member of staff on-site during your stay, however we will be available to contact.
FOR ARTISTS:
What’s included:
-
Staying at the beautiful Villa Rosa, a luxury resort (typically valued at $350+ per night).
-
Desk space in our newly writing studio. There are three desks in the house and numerous other writing spots.
-
Pre-trip support, including an introductory call to connect with fellow artists.
-
Online assistance with logistics and transportation, both prior to your arrival and during your time in El Paredón.
-
Weekday coffee and tea provided, with help available to organize meals.
-
A podcast or blog interview recorded remotely with the Studio Luce team to promote your work, plus regular features on our social media and channels.
-
One organized local experience, such as a mangrove or turtle tour, or a cooking class with a local guide.
-
Staying at an artist-in-residence listed on RES, ensuring your time with us is officially recognized.
-
Contacts to organize massages in the house, have fresh fish delivered, sort surf board rental and more.
What's not included:
-
Travel expenses, including airfare to and from Guatemala, and transport costs within the country. While these are your responsibility, we’re happy to assist with organizing local travel and have numerous contacts to help provide safe, private transportation.
-
Visa fees and costs for obtaining or renewing travel documents.
-
Health insurance.
-
Meals and drinks — artists are responsible for sorting their food, however the house will have basic supplies upon arrival. In El Paredón there are numerous places to now go eat for a reasonable cost and we don't provide food as we want to encourage you to explore the village and try the local restaurants. There are also stores to buy food nearby, and a private chef can be organized for an additional cost.
PRICING*:
Writing Retreat (8 nights)
-
General Price – $800
-
Anyone from Central America, Mexico & Guatemalan diaspora – $700
-
Guatemalan citizens living in Guatemala – $600
Open Call Residency Program (12 nights)
-
General Price – $1000
-
Anyone from Central America, Mexico & Guatemalan diaspora – $800
-
Guatemalan citizens living in Guatemala – $700
To secure your spot, a 25% deposit is required upon confirmation of attendance. The remaining balance is due a month before the start of the program. Please note that deposits are non-refundable, and residency dates cannot be transferred.
We understand that finances can be a challenge, and we’re happy to offer flexible payment plans for accepted residents. If the cost feels like a barrier to your participation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at: studioluceresidencia@gmail.com.
We’re here to help.






FAQ's: APPLYING
Will Guatemalans be given preference?
While the retreat will primarily be conducted in English, we strongly encourage applications from Guatemalans. All Guatemalan applicants will receive priority consideration during the review process and will benefit from discounted rates.
Do I need to speak English?
Though the residency will be primarily conducted in English to accommodate a global audience, we are also able to work in Spanish. A solid understanding of English is preferred, as applications must be submitted in English.
Is it just for authors and writers?
At Studio Luce we will host writing retreats for authors and academics, however we also welcome applications from all creative fields, and during our open call artist-in-residence we will host musicians, artists and more. Private Residencies and Artist Invites are open to all disciplines.
What information should I include in my application?
We’d love to hear about your work. Tell us about your discipline, your current projects, and what you hope to accomplish during your stay. Please also include links to previous work (published or otherwise) to help us better understand your creative journey.
Does there need to be a final product from my residency?
Our residency is all about exploring, developing, and advancing your creative project. We understand that with such a short timeframe, you're not expected to complete a massive project like War & Peace. However, the focus is on working on your craft rather than just relaxing by the beach (though we know that's tempting!). On the final night, we'd love to share what you've worked on, and if you're comfortable, we can host a performance, reading, exhibition, or screening. We do hope you'll make meaningful progress on your project.
Does my work stay at Studio Luce after the residency?
For artists, your creations are entirely yours to take wherever you like! However, if you'd like to donate any artwork created during your stay, we have space at Studio Luce to showcase it. Your work could even be sold to future guests at Villa Rosa.
What’s the creative space like?
Studio Luce offers a beautiful and inspiring environment with three en-suite bedrooms and a spacious, open-plan studio area. We also provide outdoor workspaces and an indoor writing desk.
How do I get to Studio Luce/Villa Rosa?
Artists are responsible for arranging their travel, but we’re here to help make the process easy! Villa Rosa is located on Guatemala’s Pacific coast, about a three-hour drive from Guatemala City (traffic depending). If flying in, you can take a private or shared shuttle from the airport or spend time in the beautiful city of Antigua and catch a shuttle from there (about two hours). We can assist with all your transport needs, and there's no need to rent a car.
What equipment do you provide?
Our newly finished studio space is perfect for artists working with a laptop, pen, or paper. However, we don’t have facilities for ceramics, dance, or music recording. Artists should bring their own materials and equipment. This is why the suited is best suited for writers.
Can I bring a partner, children, or pets?
Because the residency is short, we encourage you to embrace this time away for focused creativity. We welcome creative partnerships, but if you’re sharing the space with other artists, we encourage collaboration and connection with them. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate partners, children, or pets during the residency.
Will I have to share a studio?
This depends on the residency. Some artists will work solo, while others—especially for open calls—may share the house and studio space with two or three other artists. Collaboration and communication will be key to making the most of your shared creative environment.
What’s living in the villa like?
Villa Rosa is a stunning house, fully equipped to make your stay comfortable. Each room is spacious and filled with natural light, while the private pool, garden, and deck provide peaceful places to relax. Keep in mind that El Paredón is a sunny, hot, and humid beach village. From April to October, humidity, rain, and mosquitoes increase, so be prepared!
Do I need to cook my own meals?
El Paredón has shops and markets within walking distance, though keep in mind it’s a small, rural beach town, so options may be limited. We can connect you with local sources, like fresh fish deliveries. There are also plenty of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines—from Guatemalan to Mexican, Thai, Italian, and more. For those who prefer, we collaborate with a private chef who can cook for you during your stay.
Is there housekeeping?
Yes! Our wonderful housekeeper will clean Villa Rosa twice a week during your stay, and Kike, who manages the garden and pool, will be around daily.
Can I drink the water?
Tap water is not safe to drink in Guatemala, but Villa Rosa is equipped with an eco-filter, providing you with safe drinking water.
Can I surf while I’m there?
El Paredón is known for its amazing waves, especially from November to April! We encourage guests to surf during their stay, and we can help arrange surfboard rentals, or you’re welcome to bring your own board.
Anything else I should know?
There’s a Super24 convenience store nearby where you can withdraw cash or use a card. While most places in the village accept cash, some restaurants do take cards.
Be aware of mosquitoes, especially during the rainy season and around sunset. Bug spray is essential then, and we recommend checking your vaccinations before coming. Recently, dengue has spread in Central America, so we suggest considering the new dengue vaccine.
If you’d like a Guatemalan SIM card, we can help set you up. TIGO is the best carrier for this area. We do have WiFi in the house though.
Add a Title
THE RESIDENCY
THE RESIDENCY
STUDIO LUCE
© 2024 by Studio Luce. Created on Wix Studio.