About the Open Call

The La Baldi Residency, offered by Cultivate, is a multi-disciplinary program for artists, writers, and researchers, welcoming both individuals and collaborative teams. Located in the historic village of Montegiovi, Italy, in southern Tuscany, it offers a self-directed international residency focused on experimentation, development of ideas and projects, and exploration of the land and culture. The residency honors Maura Baldi, an educator and advocate for art and sustainable practices, emphasizing sharing and exchange, and Cultivate's investigation of landscape. Residents are encouraged to immerse themselves in the history, culture, ecology, agriculture, food, and cooking of Montegiovi, working outdoors, walking, and exploring the local social-environmental-political dynamics. The program expands Cultivate's platform for interdisciplinary explorations of land, place, and the commons, supporting diverse voices and sustainable tactics. The residency duration is two weeks to one month. Accommodations are private in Montegiovi village, including the Via Alberghi apartment (for one artist and companion, with WiFi), the Small terratetto house (for one artist and companion, no WiFi but available nearby), and the Via del Ponte apartment (for one to three artists, with WiFi). Accommodations are smoke-free and require adherence to a strict “leave no trace,” “leave no harm” green policy. The village terrain may not be suitable for those with mobility concerns, but efforts will be made to find accessible options upon request. Disciplines are open to self-directed artists, writers, and researchers, with an emphasis on embracing the outdoors as the primary workspace. While no dedicated traditional indoor studio facilities are available, indoor working space is reserved as needed for small works or writing. WiFi is available in some apartments and at Poderi Borselli. Art supplies and print shops are available in nearby Castel del Piano. Community contacts can be facilitated upon request. Residents may rent a car for transport, as travel to and from the residency is not included. Electric bicycles and local bus services are also available.

What is Offered

Accommodations; weekly grocery shopping trips (ride provided); cleaning at close of residency; info list and connections to local resources and support for research and/or supplies. Two one-month subsidized residency awards are granted each year, covering all fees. Optional side trips, activities (e.g., cooking classes, tastings, Ebike tours, Italian lessons), and services are available upon request (resident fees apply). Letters of support are offered for those with outside grant money. The program fosters community interactions and opportunities to share work.

Requirements

The program is open to self-directed artists, writers, and researchers. Residents are encouraged to immerse themselves in the landscape, place, cultural practices, and the natural environment. All activities, especially if working indoors, must adhere to a strict “leave no trace,” “leave no harm” green policy. Accommodations are smoke-free environments. Applicants are expected to follow current Italian government travel advice and recommendations regarding vaccinations, testing, and possible quarantining.

How to Apply

Complete the application form provided at https://forms.gle/VfnJJ6VnPkjwqKdT7. Applicants must indicate their desire to be considered for a subsidized residency award on the application. Individuals or collaborative duos/teams of three may apply. Project collaborators must submit individual application forms and appropriate work samples, along with a statement of intent for their collaboration at La Baldi. Each collaborator will receive private accommodation unless shared accommodation is preferred. Work samples can be collaborative or individual. For larger groups, contact Cultivate with a proposal and accommodation needs. Selection is guided by application content, availability, and alignment with La Baldi Residency's focus on relationships with land, place, and the commons, supporting varied practices and diverse backgrounds.