Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

HOW DO I APPLY?

Send us an email expressing your interest. Tell us what your project idea is in no more than 3 sentences, and let us know your availability. Do note that the timeline between first enquiry and actual residency is likely to be at least 3 months. We will get back to you to discuss your project in the context of the residency.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Currently, l'Observatoire is only open to Singapore residents. All creatives with an experimental project are welcome, at any stage of their practice. However, you need to be able to commit to regular use and presence in the studio for one whole month. Artists, Engineers on sabbatical, Scientists on break, Teachers on holiday, Accountants with a secret project...

IS THERE AN APPLICATION FEE?

No. The residency is provided free of charge in exchange for engagement with the school community.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY EXPERIMENTAL?

The purpose of the residency is to create something new. We value process over outcome and don't expect a "nice result" every time. The proposal will be discussed to make sure there is space for failures on a daily basis.

WHAT DO I GET FROM THIS RESIDENCY?

Apart from a quiet and peaceful space to practice your art or craft for one month, we will do our utmost to create opportunities for you to share the processes and outcomes of your project. Not only with the school community but also with the artist community at large, including curators, galleries and museums.

IS THERE A WORK COMPONENT? HOW DOES L'OBESRVATOIRE INTERACT WITH BLUE HOUSE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL?

There is no "work" part as such, but as a member of the community, you will be expected to give back. This most typically takes the form of interacting with the children, but it might be a series of talks or workshop with the teachers or donating some of the work produced during the residency.

DO I NEED TO HAVE EXPERIENCE WITH CHILDREN?

No. We only ask that you respect that you are in a school, and be open to children visiting, sharing, viewing your work at least. If you do have experience and want to interact with the children, there will be plenty of opportunities. If you are unsure, there will be facilitators (teachers, pedagogista, atelierista or Isabelle herself) to handle the viewing and inspirational experience.

WHEN IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE?

The application is on-going. Just send us an email. Do note that the timeline between first enquiry and actual residency is likely to be at least 3 months. But feel free to apply one year in advance!

WILL ACCOMODATION BE PROVIDED?

At this point, the residency only provides a studio space. We assume that as Singapore Resident, you already have a space to stay. If however you do need a space to stay during the month-long residency, do talk to us and we will try to help.

DOES IT HAVE TO BE ONE MONTH LONG?

One month seems to be the appropriate time to get away from other responsibilities and make the most of what a residency can offer. If you can only commit once a week, or one week at a time, however, talk to use! We are flexible and most likely be able to find a way.

I WORK FULL TIME. CAN I STILL APPLY AND USE THE STUDIO AT SPECIFIC TIMES?

Ideally, you would be able to commit to some time to be present during school hours. But exceptions are possible, especially if you allow children to come and visit the studio and your set-up, work-in-progress while you are away (this would always be done in a controlled manner to avoid disturbing your environment). But bear in mind that a residency works best to boost your creativity and production if you are fully immersed.