Starry Night Retreat is nestled in the historic hot springs district of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. Located halfway between Albuquerque and El Paso, Starry Night provides a nourishing environment for artists, writers and researchers of all disciplines to accomplish new work.

The Artist in Residence program provides artists, writers, and researchers with the opportunity to live and work as part of a small, creative community. The program runs year-round and features writers, filmmakers, visual artists, and researchers of all disciplines. The primary goal of the program is to support self-directed artists in the creation of new work while offering an environment that promotes self-reflection as well as risk-taking, experimentation, and innovation in art in the quiet, rustic environment of southern New Mexico.

The residency includes lodging and access to shared studio space. Residencies can be partially subsidized by financial aid (detailed information is on the application). The cost to an applicant, with a minimum stay of two weeks, is $650 or $1200 per month. Participants may apply to bring their partner, creative partner, or spouse with them for an additional $175 per week. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. This program is open to matriculated students as well as established and emerging artists.

Don’t worry, we may be able to offer you financial aid and payment plans are available for artists if they so choose.

A residency at Starry Night is ideal for creatives who are self-directed and hungry for the quiet and reflective solitude of a rural environment off the beaten path while still being in a small town.

The living quarters at Starry Night include a studio apartment furnished with a bed, one set of bed linens, a chest of drawers, table and chairs, closet; bathroom with shower, bath towels, linens; and kitchen with sink, stove, refrigerator, microwave, minimal cookware, and dishes.

The studio facilities are shared between two to three artists and include approximately 350 square feet of indoor work space and 300- square feet of outdoor work space on the grounds. These consist of wall and floor space, work tables, chairs, an easel, and access to a small assortment of tools. Wi-Fi is available throughout but is strongest in the courtyard area of the grounds.

One of the biggest draws of Truth or Consequences is the mild climate. Located on the banks of the Rio Grande in the southwestern region of New Mexico, Truth or Consequences sits at 4,260 feet above sea level. High temperatures average around 90+ degrees throughout the summer and 55 degrees in the winter. These are famously moderate for the state, and the low humidity makes warm temperatures quite comfortable. Even the hottest days cool down to the low 60s at night. We strongly encourage AIRs to get optional air conditioning in their units for an additional $35 per week during the summer months.

Winter nights can get quite cold. Winters in Truth or Consequences are quite sunny and comfortable during the day though it does occasionally snow. The flakes usually melt away with the afternoon sunshine. This semi-arid climate provides a nightly show: New Mexico has brilliant sunsets and an unpolluted night sky brimming with bright constellations.