Atelier Anamú Residency Program welcomes artists and educators from a wide range of disciplines, including visual arts, writing, sound, ecological, and cross-disciplinary approaches. The program offers residents a space for inner peace, connection to land, and personal growth.

Located on the farmland where artist Sofía Maldonado Suárez maintains her studio, the residency setting inspires plein air painting and experience-based projects. Residents are encouraged to slow down, observe, and engage deeply with the terrain and its stories. Full moon nights offer a remarkable atmosphere, and those interested in gardening therapy will find ample space to explore this practice.

Artists may begin new work, expand ongoing projects, or pursue research during their stay. The program fosters self-reflection and creative freedom by encouraging residents to use the open land as a studio space. Residents can receive mentorship and guidance from Sofía Maldonado Suárez if they seek feedback or support. Atelier Anamú remains committed to connecting its residents with Puerto Rico’s vibrant cultural, artistic, and environmental diversity.

Lodging: Artists may stay from one week to one months, with only one artist or couple accepted per term. The selected resident is accommodated in a private, fully equipped RV camper on the perimeter of the farmland, within walking distance of the beach and local bars and restaurants.

The experience is designed to evoke a glamping feel. Residents have access to an outdoor gas stove. Inside the RV camper, one room includes a queen-size bed, a twin futon, a comfortable dining and living area with a table, and a kitchenette with a microwave, refrigerator, and coffeemaker. The unit also includes a full bathroom, air conditioning, WiFi, and a TV screen with connection capabilities. For additional security and comfort, the RV is equipped with solar panels and a built-in water cistern in case of utility shortages.

Studio: Artists are encouraged to use Atelier Anamú’s open farmland as their studio or experimental space. Residents are invited to explore the natural environment and use the surroundings as their creative grounds, with nearby hikes such as Reserva Natural Inés M. Mendoza and Punta Tuna available for inspiration.

The RV camper is intended as a living and office area, not as a studio. For those requiring a more traditional workspace, a nearby tent with a table can be arranged; however, this remains an open-air environment. The Atelier Anamú team is available to discuss each resident's specific workspace needs during the selection process.

Atelier Anamú provides resources to support resident projects, including a portable painting easel, scrap wood, a projector, a sewing machine, a wood-fired pit for ceramic experiments, and a partnership with a local agro-ecological farm.

Application process: Atelier Anamú accepts applications year-round, with a particular emphasis on projects focused on nature immersion. The process is transparent and communicative. Interested artists are invited to email their proposal to: sofia@sofiamaldonado.com

The email subject line should read “Atelier Anamú Residency Program Inquiry.” Project proposals should be limited to a maximum of 500 words and up to 5 images, and should include preferred residency dates. Puerto Rican artists may be eligible for a reduced artist’s rate and are encouraged to inquire if this applies to them.

Selection process: Atelier Anamú welcomes artists whose work fits the residency’s spirit and focus. We review every proposal for creativity, intention, and compatibility with the residency’s facilities. We may contact shortlisted candidates for additional details or invite them to a video call interview to discuss their project further. Selected artists are notified within 15 to 30 days, along with details about the artist’s rate based on the proposed stay. The team is dedicated to maintaining an open, friendly, and clear process at every step.

Transportation: Artists should note that a car is necessary for travel around Yabucoa and its nearby towns. While Atelier Anamú can assist with basic trips for groceries and essentials, residents are responsible for planning their own transportation logistics before arrival.

VIA AIRPLANE: International and mainland visitors should fly into Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan. Arriving via Ceiba is also a suitable option, particularly for those traveling from other Caribbean destinations or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

VIA CAR: From San Juan, visitors can rent a car near the airport or take a taxi or rideshare service. Yabucoa has no public transportation, so plan accordingly. Atelier Anamú may be able to provide a bicycle or recommend local taxi services as needed.