Adams State offers artists a breath of “rare A.I.R.”

Artist in Residency Program begins this fall

Anthony Vasquez, art alumnus, will connect with community during his residency.

Visual and performing artists seek ways to expand their talents and inspire their creativity. The Adams State University Art, Theatre and Music Departments initiated an Artist in Residency program this fall to present visual and performing artists with an opportunity to complete projects, start collaborations, or spark new ideas.

"For years, the visual and performing art departments on campus have wanted to create an artist in residency program," said Claire van der Plas, head of the Art Department.

Adams State’s Rare AIR will host six artists from August through December, starting with Kenneth D. Friedrich, musician, composer, from September 10 through 22; Anthony Vasquez, visual artist, from September 29 through October 6; TL (Toni) Ridgway-Woodall, visual artist, from October 7 through October 28; Franklin J. Stroble, musician, composer, from October 15 through November 3; Lily Kuonen, visual artist, from November 16 through November 30; and Briay Conditt, musician, composer, from November 25 through December 18.

The residency will include a pop-up art show or public talk, workshop, performance, or other community engagement.

The Adams State Rare AIR program will provide an apartment on Faculty Drive for the artist. All transportation, art supplies, and meals will be the responsibility of the artist. In addition to the accommodation, the visual artists will have access to a large studio in the art building and access to all workshops. The musicians will be provided access to the music facilities.

An Adams State student will have the experience of working with the resident artists as an assistant, if needed. "Being in such an isolated place, it is hard for students to get to see a wide range of artists and performances," van der Plas said. "Rare AIR lets us bring a diverse range of artists, musicians and theatre professionals from all over the nation and in many disciplines, including ones not represented among ASU faculty.

"It is really a win-win. The artists get time and support to focus, and the students get to see fresh faces and approaches."

Dates for performances, talks, workshops, and exhibits dates will be established and published as the semester progresses. "A residency provides an artist the time to escape their normal routine and responsibilities and give 100 percent focus to their work," van der Plas said. "We are thrilled to have the program start this fall."

There are several artists scheduled for the spring semester. For more information, contact the ASU Art Department at 719-587-7823.