FIA was established in 2008 as one of Shorefast’s founding projects. Shorefast is a registered Canadian charity established on Fogo Island to advance place-based economic development. It includes a holistic set of initiatives and businesses, including FIA’s residency program that opened in 2010. That year, seven artists from Canada, Germany, India, Norway, Scotland, and the US came to the island for several months. Learn more about Shorefast

The four studios — Tower Studio, Long Studio, Bridge Studio, and Squish Studio — are situated along Fogo Island’s beloved walking trails. They are significant markers in the landscape. Visitors are welcome to admire the studios from afar, however it’s important to remember that these are active workspaces for FIA’s artists-in-residence. Should an artist be in a studio, we kindly ask that you respect their solitude.

If you would like to visit the studios, FIA leads a monthly tours. See our events page for more information or contact us at [email protected].

The artists-in-residence use the studios and live in restored heritage houses.

Artists can participate in a Fogo Island Arts (FIA) residency in three ways: by direct invitation, by receiving a residency as an award through one of the partnership residencies, or by being selected through a call for applications. View our current open calls

Artists are offered a studio, accommodation in a heritage house, and the use of a car. Each studio is located on a hiking trail and must be approached by foot. Cars are provided for artists to move easily around Fogo Island. Distances between places require a car. View our current open calls.

Artists-in-residence may be invited to do a public presentation.

International artists are responsible for travel visas and health insurance. Artists are required to possess a valid driver’s license.

Some FIA residencies are fully funded, with no cost to the artist. Others are partially supported and may require artists to contribute to their participation costs. Artists are encouraged to seek external funding, where necessary. Letters of invitation are available upon request. View our current open calls for further details.

Partners and family members are welcome to visit, however, please note that FIA does not provide any additional support.

We do not accept applications for exhibitions.

FIA residencies are intended for professional contemporary artists with specialized training, recognition among their peers, and a history of public presentation of their work in a professional context. We welcome applications from Canadian and international contemporary artists, curators, and writers.

FIA typically hosts 15-18 residencies per year, ranging from one to three months in length. Most residencies take place between March and October.