Biolumina Artist Residency

We offer an immersive residency program year-round, with artists selecting their preferred month based on availability. The residency provides 1–2 week stays for selected artists, offering on-site accommodation, studio space, and a bicycle to explore the island.

Located in the Villa Borinquen area, north of Vieques, Puerto Rico, Casa Mi Rey Estate rises atop a hill with over 7,000 square meters of open land, offering expansive views of sea and sky. Far from distraction yet just a 15-minute walk from the beach, it provides a tranquil environment for reflection and experimentation.

The art studio and living spaces are rustic, naturally ventilated, and designed in an open-plan blanc brutalist style, fostering a direct and honest connection with the island’s elements. This setting invites artists to slow down, explore site-responsive practices, and create in dialogue with the raw beauty of Vieques.

Artists have the freedom to pursue self-directed projects, with opportunities to collaborate with the Foundation through talks, workshops, and events that build cross-disciplinary and community connections. The estate is equipped with Wi-Fi, a wood workshop, and a projector for creative use.

Application Deadline: December 30, 2025
Residency Period: 2026-27

Scenic view of a tropical beach with clear blue sky, vibrant ocean, sandy shore, rocky coastline, and a paved walkway with a white railing. Malecon in Vieques, Puerto Rico
Two people are walking through a dense forest trail at Sugar Mills in Vieques, Puerto Rico, surrounded by lush green foliage and sunlight filtering through the trees.

In A Nutshell

  • Artists whose practice resonates with Biolumina’s ethos — creation as connection, reflection, and dialogue with place.


    We welcome:

    • Contemporary visual artists exploring materiality, identity, or belonging

    • Performance, video, and land artists engaging with landscape, light, and gesture

    • Artists inspired by nature’s presence and cultural memory

    • Collaborative and community-driven proposals that nurture exchange and transformation

    • Studio space and accommodation in Vieques

    • Opportunity to present work in a curated group exhibition at Cundeamor’s Gallery

    • Networking with local art collectors

    • Engagement with the local community through workshops and open studios

    • Make a $30 donation (If you can)

    • Submit a portfolio (PDF format)

    • Artist statement and project proposal (500 words max)

    • CV or resume

    • Link to website or social media (if available)

    • Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by the Foundation, followed by a review process with the Advisory Board. Successful applicants will receive written confirmation of their residency by December each year.

  • After their residency, all artists are invited to leave a lasting impression by donating a piece of their work to the Biolumina collection. While this is most tangible for visual artists, every donation represents a unique contribution to the space. These donated works are displayed throughout Casa Mi Rey, creating a visual narrative of past residents' experiences and creative journeys. The collection is a growing asset, which can be sold over time to fund future residencies. Additionally, artists can leave a more enduring legacy by creating a fruit garden or land art, which integrates the natural surroundings into the long-term sustainability of the estate.

Apply

FAQs

How do I get to Vieques?
To reach Vieques, you can take a short flight (approximately 25 minutes) from San Juan or Ceiba, Puerto Rico, or travel by ferry from Ceiba. We recommend flying if possible, as it’s faster and more reliable than the ferry, which can be affected by weather and seasonal demand. Once on the island, we offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off from the Vieques airport or ferry terminal for residents. Feel free to reach out if you need help planning your route — we’re happy to assist.

How do I get to the residency?
We provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off from either the Vieques Airport (VQS) or the ferry terminal for artists in residence. Casa Mi Rey is located in a remote, natural setting. While a bicycle is available for local rides, we are also within a 10–15 minute walking distance from Playa Bastimento.
For greater mobility, we recommend renting a 4x4 vehicle for access to more secluded beaches. A golf cart is also a great option to reach beaches farther from the property, visit nearby towns, or explore the island at your own pace.

Studio & Facilities

Do I have to share a studio?
No. Biolumina offers one residency at a time — each artist receives exclusive access to a private studio-loft for both living and working. If applying as a duo, the space and sleeping areas will be shared. The studio includes a hammock, a sofa bed, and is designed as an open-plan, minimalist loft.

What equipment do you have?
Our facilities include a small wood workshop and basic tools for mixed media, printmaking, and sculpture. However, there are no technicians on-site, so artists should be comfortable working independently and bring any specialized materials or tools they require.

Living Experience

What are the living conditions like?
Expect an immersive, off-grid experience with no air conditioning and a strong connection to nature. The studio features an outdoor shower, Wi-Fi, a kitchenette with microwave and fridge, and stunning ocean views. Evenings are breezy and starlit — pack light, breathable clothes and an open mindset.

Can I bring my partner or family?
Biolumina is an adults-only retreat. While partners may visit briefly, the residency is designed for focused, solo artistic exploration. We do not accommodate children or full-time guests at this time.

Legacy & Contribution

What does 'Leaving a Legacy' mean?
At the end of each residency, artists are invited to contribute to the Biolumina Collection — a growing visual archive of past residents. This can be a physical artwork, digital media, performance documentation, or even the planting of a tree or herb garden. These gestures honor your time in Vieques and build a lasting connection to the island.

Costs & Application

Is there an application fee?
Yes, there is a $30 non-refundable application fee to help cover administrative costs. We offer limited fee waivers for artists facing financial hardship or displacement. Email us at hola[at]bioluminaresidency.org before the deadline to request a waiver.

What does the residency include?

  • Private live/work studio

  • Welcome pick-up from ferry/airport

  • Access to workshop tools and bike

  • Wi-Fi, kitchenette, hammock, and more

  • Opportunities for community engagement (optional)

What is NOT included?

  • Travel to San Juan or to Vieques (from mainland)

  • Meals, art materials, health insurance

  • Personal transportation on the island (car rental recommended)

Accessibility & Health

Is the residency accessible?
Biolumina is located within Casa Mi Rey, set on a hill with uneven terrain and rustic infrastructure. While we are actively working to improve accessibility, the property may present challenges for individuals with limited mobility. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any specific needs — we’re here to support you.

What should I know about health and safety?
Vieques does not have a full hospital, only an emergency clinic that provides basic care and stabilization services. We encourage all residents to take necessary precautions, bring any essential medications, and secure appropriate travel or health insurance for the duration of their stay.