Artist in Residence
About the Organizer
A|S Boutique Residence, a privately owned luxury boutique hotel situated in Old Havana — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is pleased to announce an open call for its artistic residency programme.
This Artist in Residence initiative was conceived by Andre Visser, an Amsterdam-based artist, and his partner Sandy Solano, a connoisseur of Cuban music and dance.
Together, they aim to cultivate a culturally rich and inspiring hospitality experience.
Artist in Residence
in the Heart of Old Havana
Immerse yourself in the enchanting history of Old Havana at this privately owned luxury boutique hotel. Nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Havana, this all-suite marvel has been carefully redesigned to reveal its majestic beauty.
Perfectly positioned in the vibrant heart of San Isidro — Old Havana’s most creative neighbourhood, recognized by TIME OUT as ‘One of the 51 coolest neighbourhoods in the world’ — this hotel offers an unparalleled artistic experience in an exceptional setting.
Indulge in the pinnacle of world-class luxury and artistic freedom at this unique establishment, where an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere exudes quiet sophistication, eclectic style, and understated bohemian charm.
This exclusive hotel has been thoughtfully designed as a private retreat for independent minds and free-spirited artists, providing a laid-back and confidential sanctuary unlike any other.
With only nine Luxury Suites and Junior Suites, along with the Grand Salon, an organic restaurant, and Art Gallery HAV, this palatial mansion offers a truly intimate encounter. The enchantment continues with several ‘tropical garden’ patios and a stunning rooftop terrace, providing tranquil spaces to unwind, create, and absorb the inspiring atmosphere.
Lose yourself in a visionary masterpiece of captivating beauty and contemporary design, where every detail has been meticulously curated to ensure an unforgettable and inspiring stay.
Programme Overview
The Artist in Residence programme offers both individual and group residencies for emerging and established artists seeking to explore and expand their creative practice. Residents engage with the intersection of social, cultural, and environmental themes in Cuban contemporary art, bridging modern creativity with local heritage.
This programme invites artists from across the globe to engage with Cuba’s vibrant and evolving art and music scene, distinguished by a fascinating blend of African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. Through interaction with local artists, galleries, curators, and immersive cultural exchanges—as well as creative collaboration among international participants—the programme provides exceptional opportunities for growth, expression, and inspiration within the rich context of Cuban culture and history.
Group residencies run for two weeks and include curated workshops with local artists, studio visits with contemporary artists and curators, and collaborative projects among residents. The programme fosters profound connections with Cuba’s unparalleled artistic heritage, emphasizing exchange and reflection.
The two-week programme in Old Havana includes luxury accommodation, transportation, breakfast, and professional mentorship by artists and curators. Residents also enjoy multiple visits to contemporary art museums, diverse art spaces, galleries, and more.
The A|S open call accepts nine residents (single occupancy) or eighteen residents (double occupancy). Facilities include private bedrooms with king-size beds and bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and communal indoor and outdoor working spaces.
The programme may culminate in an Open Studio event, showcasing residents’ work in Art Gallery HAV to participants, international hotel and restaurant guests, the local community, and art professionals.
What's included
- 9 Luxury Suites & Junior Suites
- Breakfast
- Concierge Service
- Classic ‘Old-Timer’ Airport Transfers
- Welcome Dinner
- Old-Timer Car Tour
- Indoor & Outdoor Working Spaces
- Art Gallery and Exhibition Space
- Restaurant
All transportation costs related to the programme are included. Other transport and airfare expenses are excluded.
The Artist in Residence programme will proceed only if a minimum of nine guests participate.
For more details, please consult the FAQ page.
Programme Outline
(Tailored for Each Artistic Discipline)
Day 1
Arrival and Introduction
Day 2
Walking Tour of Old Havana
Formation of Workshop Groups
Day 3
Art Gallery Tour
Day 4
Workshop 1
Free Working Afternoon
Welcome Dinner
Day 5
Contemporary Art Museum Visit with Curator
Free Working Afternoon
Day 6
Old-Timer Car Tour including Hemingway’s House
Free Working Afternoon
Day 7
Workshop 2
Visit to Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC)
Day 8
Cuban Artists’ Atelier Visits – Part 1
Day 9
Free Working Day
Day 10
Yoga Class & Beach Day
Day 11
Cuban Artists’ Atelier Visits – Part 2
Day 12
Free Working Day
Day 13
Exhibition or Presentation at Art Gallery HAV
Day 14
Applicable Disciplines
The Artist in Residence concept is applicable and tailored to the following groups:
- Writers
- Painters
- Photographers
- Musicians
- Conceptual Designers
- Architects
- Dancers
- Performers
Eligibility Criteria
International emerging and established artists, including LGBTQ+ artists, all with a proven track record.
Special Note for American Citizens
In accordance with US embargo regulations on Cuba, participation in this Artist in Residence programme is permitted. We comply fully with American regulations: the programme is an educational endeavour hosted by a privately owned hotel, organised by local entrepreneurs without any involvement from the Cuban government.
Location
A|S Boutique Residence
Jesús María #258,
Havana, Cuba
10100
Key Dates
1 Oct – 14 Oct 2025 and 15 Oct – 30 Oct 2025
Applications accepted before 1 September 2025
1 Apr – 14 Apr 2026 and 15 Apr – 30 Apr 2026
Applications accepted before 28 February 2026
Applications accepted before 30 April 2026
Project duration: 2 weeks
Application details
The jury process is conducted by owner and artist Andre Visser, who will form groups based on artistic disciplines for both individual and group applications.
Requirements
- CV
- Portfolio
- Artist Statement
- Project Description
Send your application to
Costs
Confirmation is sent after full payment, due three weeks before the start date, by credit card through our payment provider.
Non-refundable cancellation policy applies.
General terms and conditions are available on the FAQ and Terms & Conditions pages.
Benefits
1
One-month exhibition of one artwork by each participant
in the A|S Boutique Residence Art Gallery
2
Certificate confirming participation
in the Artist in Residence programme
Contact Information
Additional Travel Information
Visitors to Cuba require a tourist visa and must register online at:
- The Tourist Visas website.
American Visitors
American visitors are required by US law to stay in privately owned residences and travel for educational purposes; both conditions are fulfilled by the accommodation and the Artist in Residence programme.
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