ARTIST RESIDENCY PROGRAM AT RUBY MOUNTAIN PROJECT

⊹₊ ⟡ ROLLING OPEN CALL: APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN FOR FALL 2026 ⟡ ₊⊹

RMP’s residency program is for artists and creatives of all disciplines. We especially encourage those who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and early career/ development to apply.

This is a fee based program, built on an equitable sliding scale mode and partially subsidized with donations and merchandise sales. Scholarships are not available at this time but will be in the future, hopefully starting fall 2027. There are options for work trade to reduce costs. See pricing information below.

Residency programming runs from September through May, with most cohorts being 3 weeks long. 1, 2 and 7 weeks stays are also possible. Most cohorts will have up to 3 artists at a time.

Application process and cost

Please read all info below prior to applying through the link near the bottom of page. Once you have applied, you should get a response within two weeks. Once accepted, you will be provided with a contract and liability waiver to sign along with payment information. We accept Zelle and Paypal. You will also be provided with a guest handbook that provides more detailed information about your stay.

The program is fee based, built on an equitable sliding scale model and partially subsidized with donations and merchandise sales. Scholarships are not available at this time but will be in the future. Visit the fee page for pricing.

Partial work trades are available for up to 50% off the fee, one opportunity per cohort based on need and skills available. Tasks include cleaning, laundry, preparing for events, landscaping, gardening, etc. Please fill out details in application form to apply for this role.

Building the cohort ecosystem

For the most part artists will arrive and leave around the same time, creating a cohesive cohort for the duration of the residency. Connection begins with a cohort welcome dinner provided by RMP. Weekly gatherings such as potluck dinners with local guests, group outings to events and nature activities will be organized as a group and as desired. Artists will get weekly or as needed check-ins with the RMP director to discuss their experience and any needs that come up throughout their stay.

Studios & Workspaces

Residents are provided with either a private shipping container studio or outdoor workspace depending on their project needs. Many tools, work surfaces and equipment are available onsite including various power and wood working tools, sewing and natural dyeing equipment and a dance deck. Limited materials are on site including access to the scrap yard. All other materials and specialty tools must be provided by the artist.

Open studios and community engagement

Open studio gatherings occur at the end of the residency, offering the opportunity for artists to share their work with the local community through informal presentations, exhibitions, and conversation. Artists are welcome to create workshops, presentations or talks for the public during their stay if desired.

Accommodations

Well-curated vintage travel trailers include basic kitchen amenities, bedding, towels, and access to nearby outdoor shower and pit toilet. Wifi is available in the trailers but not in the container studios. Guests are responsible for providing their own food and personal supplies. Grocery stores and local markets are available nearby. Soap/ shampoo/ conditioner is provided in trailers, bathing and laundry areas.

Communal spaces

The outdoor communal kitchen is available 24/7 and is a place for artists to share time and space together for cooking, eating, hanging out, working, etc. The open air kitchen is well-equipped with cooking utensils and equipment and has a gas stove and oven, fridge, sink, and food storage. Other communal spaces include the dance + yoga deck, the gazebo, and various seating areas tucked around the parcel.

Accessibility

RMP spans 5 acres with sand and gravel pathways throughout. Most structures require one or two steps to enter, including the trailers, studios, shower house, and outhouse. Red nighttime pathway lighting and rechargeable white or red headlamps are provided for walking at night while preserving night vision for stargazing. Please reach out with any specific accessibility needs and questions: hello@rubymountainproject.com

Getting in and out of RMP

RMP is located in the unincorporated community of Landers with the closest services in Yucca Valley, about 15 minutes away by car. Driving a personal or rental car is the easiest and highly preferred way to access RMP, explore the surrounding area, visit nearby sites including the national park and attend the numerous happenings in town. The nearest airport is Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). Car-less travelers can reach Yucca Valley from Palm Springs and Los Angeles via bus. It is possible for artists to be picked up in Yucca Valley and to be provided a weekly grocery run, however taxis will need to be used for all other travel.

Weather + safety

Weather in the high desert varies dramatically throughout the year, from freezing winter nights to summer temperatures above 100°F, with occasional wind, rain, monsoons, and rare snow flurries. Check out this website for seasonal weather info in Landers/ Yucca Valley, CA. The property is located within a desert environment containing cactus, uneven terrain, wildlife, and strong sun exposure, so extra awareness, sun protection, hydration, etc. is required. Upon booking, further advice on packing for the weather will be provided.

Cancelation policy

Upon reserving, 50% of the your total fee is due along with $100 deposit which acts as a security and damage deposit. Cancelations made up to 30 days prior are fully refundable minus the security deposit. Cancelations made between 15 and 30 days are 50% refundable minus the security deposit. Cancelations made less than 15 days prior to arrival day are non-refundable. Deferring the start date within the season is possible based on availability but not guaranteed.