Fundación Artesumapaz

Colombia

Mediums Welcome

About This Residency

ArteSumapaz is a non-profit arts and culture nonprofit organization located on a magical piece of terrain in the Andean mountains, about four hours outside Bogotá. The artist residency program (AIR) is designed for visual artists, musicians, writers, architects, clay artists, performers, and other makers. It is a self-directed residency, where artists have full access to studio spaces of all kinds (visual art, music, movement, writing, etc.) throughout the vast and beautiful campus that includes a natural park in process of about 230 acres. Artists are given the space, freedom, and encouragement to explore and experiment with their work. The artists are welcome to participate in weekly “open critique” sessions (group discussions about their work), to share workshops or exhibitions with ArteSumapaz’s artist community or the communities of nearby towns as San Bernardo Cundinamarca and Pandi. The backbone of ArteSumapaz is the community created here of artists, makers, and environmentalists who often gain inspiration from one another, and enjoy lively and interesting discussions.

Experience & Atmosphere

At ArteSumapaz, daily life is designed around the creative process. Rather than defining success by output, we encourage artists to work at the pace that best supports their practice—whether that means producing extensively or taking time to reflect, research, rest, and experiment. Meals are served communally and often become moments for meaningful conversations and artistic exchange, while residents are always free to enjoy them on their own if they need solitude. With nearly 90 hectares of private natural reserve, studios, gardens, and quiet corners, everyone can find the environment that best supports their way of working. Our aim is to create a life-changing experience through art, nature, and the experience of living within an international community of artists. Every week, we host optional gatherings where residents can share their work, exchange ideas, or reflect on their creative process. By taking care of cooking and shared spaces, we reduce everyday responsibilities so artists can dedicate more time and energy to what nourishes their practice—whether that's making work, reading, walking through the forest, having meaningful conversations, or simply enjoying a good cup of coffee in silence.

Mission & Goals

ArteSumapaz is an artist residency and cultural center that fosters artistic creation through the intersection of art, nature, and community. We believe that the arts have the power to transform both individuals and territories by creating spaces for reflection, dialogue, and meaningful cultural exchange. Inspired by models such as Black Mountain College and the Bauhaus, we encourage interdisciplinary exploration while remaining deeply rooted in environmental stewardship and the local context. Our work is guided by the values of sustainability, inclusivity, consent, repair, and collaboration, with a commitment to supporting both artists and the communities that surround us.