Visual Arts Center of Richmond

The Visual Arts Center of Richmond (VACR) offers an 11-month residency from September 1, 2024, to July 31, 2025, to a poet, fiction writer, or nonfiction writer at the Virginia Dairy building in Richmond’s historic Fan District. Writers who have not yet published a full-length book, are not currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, and can commit to spending at least 20 hours per week in the studio are eligible. The residency includes private studio space, an honorarium of $5,000, and a $500 budget for materials. The resident writer has the opportunity to teach up to two classes at the Center on a paid contract basis, host regular studio visits with donors and open studio events, and give a public reading. The resident will also be provided a consultation with a literary agent at the conclusion of the program, a professional headshot, annual VACR membership, a one-year membership to James River Writers, free registration to attend the James River Writers Conference in October, free VACR classes, access to communal studio spaces, and private instruction from a VACR instructor. The residency does not include housing. To apply, writers submitted a writing sample of 10 pages of poetry or up to 25 pages of prose, a curriculum vitae, a personal statement, and two references by April 1. There is no application fee. Visit the website for the required application form and more information.

Accessibility accommodations include public transportation near the venue, elevator access to all residency spaces, accessible pathways and doorways, accessible bathrooms, and accessible parking. Contact the exhibitions and residencies manager via e-mail for additional accessibility details.