More opportunities for creative artistic practices.

The art residency model in Da Lat is opening up many new opportunities for artists.

Mimosa Gallery and the "Melody from Above" exhibition by artist Tran The Vinh (second from left).

In major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Can Tho, Hai Phong, and Hue, the model of private art organizations supporting visual artists (fine arts, photography, film, video art, installations, performance, etc.) financially, providing workspace, publishing their works, and accessing markets has been underway for many years and has created significant impetus for the development of culture and art. The art residency model, in terms of organization, is almost like a creative camp, where artists are provided with accommodation, transportation, and opportunities to immerse themselves in real-world situations to carry out their own art projects. The art residency model differs from creative camps in that one receives funding from the state budget, while the other receives funding from private sources. To participate in a creative camp, artists are required to be members of a professional association. In contrast, organizing an art residency does not require artists to be members of a professional organization. Artists applying for art residency programs are completely free to apply, provided that their artistic portfolio (previous works for the organizers to assess their artistic style and approach) meets the organizers' artistic criteria. The artist's benefits include all (or part) of their living expenses, the cost of creating the artwork, and the cost of publishing the art project. The artist's responsibility is to carry out the art project during the duration of the residency program.

A freelance artist participating in an art residency program organized by a gallery in Da Lat shared: “In the world , the art residency model is not new; in fact, it has existed since ancient times, when European nobility patronized artists (providing food, accommodation, supplies, and a conducive environment for creating artwork, and even purchasing artists' works...). In Vietnam in general, and Da Lat in particular, this is a new approach. It stems from the passion of art-loving individuals who want to revitalize the country's art scene. When artists participate in art residency programs, in addition to receiving maximum support from the organizers for their art projects, they also get to live alongside other creative individuals. This is an inspiring environment for artists to improve their creative abilities, develop new skills, and broaden their artistic vision.”

Ana Mandara Villas Dalat and the "Ordinary Dream" exhibition by artist Tran Quoc Long.

In Da Lat, Mimosa Gallery (17 Phu Dong Thien Vuong Street), Musee du Pin (29-31 Dong Da Street), Ana Mandara Villas Dalat (2 Le Lai Street), Stop and Go Artspace (88 Ly Tu Trong Street)... are pioneers in organizing art residency programs for artists to stay and create. This new model has attracted many renowned artists from across the country to Da Lat to practice their creativity. As one artist participating in an art residency program organized by Mimosa Gallery shared, this is a mutually beneficial partnership. The gallery expands its collection of works, and the artist takes a significant step towards accessing the market.

Mr. Nguyen Minh, a resident of Lam Vien ward in Da Lat, added: “The art residency model not only benefits artists and organizers, but also brings practical benefits to the community where artists stay to practice their art projects. This is a suggestion for local authorities and cultural managers to pay more attention to expanding creative art spaces in Da Lat, inviting artists from various fields to participate in art residency programs to awaken the cultural depth of Da Lat resort city, thereby contributing to the building and development of the cultural industry here – a city recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City in the field of Music.”

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/them-co-hoi-cho-nhung-thuc-hanh-sang-tao-nghe-thuat-412104.html