Prudence Island Artist in Residence Program
Monica Shinn, Artist in Residence 2019-2022
We provide artists in all disciplines the opportunity to spend time and be inspired by the natural ecosystem of Prudence Island and Narragansett Bay.
Established in 2017, the Residency is based at the Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NBNERR), South Prudence Island in Portsmouth, RI. The Reserve is a state-federal partnership between NOAA and RI Department of Environmental Management, and comprises 4400 acres on Prudence Island. NBNERR is part of a national network of 29 reserves whose mission is to practice and promote coastal and estuarine stewardship through innovative research and education, using a system of protected areas.
NBNERR provides opportunities for participating artists to learn about the history and ecology of Prudence Island and the mission and functions of the Reserve itself. Participating artists will be invited to spend time with NBNERR staff and participate in activities in each of the four sectors of Education, Training, Research and Stewardship. NBNERR will also provide opportunities for current artists-in-residence to connect with past participants / alumni of the program.
Priscilla Carrion, Artist in Residence 2022-2023
Jorrit Diijkstra, Artist in Residence 2022-2023
Facilities include a visitor’s center / laboratory / office building/ education classroom and outdoor pavilion. There are two dormitory structures that have 3-4 bedrooms, bathrooms, full kitchens, and laundry facilities. Most areas of the NBNERR campus are ADA compliant. There is no dedicated art space and the artist must bring all materials and supplies needed to generate their work. Access to the island is by ferry only. The Prudence Island ferry leaves from Thames St. in Bristol (schedules vary seasonally).
For more information contact Sheryl Kopel, founding director of the Prudence Island AiR program, at PIArtistResidency@gmail.com
David Everett, Artist in Residence 2017-2018