STUDIOS

AAR’s studios consist of two large, open-concept studio spaces and can facilitate up to three artists at a time.

One studio is on the main floor, and two studios are on the third floor of the house.

AAR artists should decide amongst the group as to who gets what studio based on needs unless an AAR representative hasn’t already indicated preferences.

The main floor studio is 14’ x 25’ and can facilitate one or two artists. The main floor studio has two sliding doors that be closed for privacy. The main floor studio is also attached to the sunroom. We ask that whoever occupies the main floor studio also share access to the sunroom with other residents. The sunroom is equipped with a couch, chairs, and is a great spot for yoga, reading, or watching a storm come in. 

The top-floor studio is loft-like studio and boasts a lot of natural light. Its square footage is 15’ x 24’, and can facilitate two artists. The upstairs studio is naturally divided by the stair case, and we provide fuller partitions for more privacy.

Studio Equipment

Studios are equipped with folding tables, stools, chairs, basin/slop-sinks, rolling carts, adjustable desk, fluorescent lights, dehumidifiers, and magnetic walls that can be used for partitions.

Ventilation

Both studios are best suited for drawing, painting in acrylic, oils (odorless thinner required) or watercolour as well as collage, small-scale sculpture, photography, videography, and writing. The house is only ventilated by opening screened windows. The use of power tools is prohibited, with exceptions for small hand-held tools such as drills.

Supplies

As AAR is quite remote, we suggest artists bring their desired art supplies with them or pick supplies en route to the residency. AAR will offer a small selection of basic art materials that residents can purchase (at cost) during their stay. As an art supply store isn’t extremely close by, we offer these materials as a backup plan to be used on an as-needed basis. We ask if you use these supplies to please leave an applicable donation behind.

Studio Hours

Artists can use the studio at whatever hours they see fit, but please be considerate of those sharing the space with you and who may be using the space below you. Bedrooms are located both above and below the studios, and sound does travel.

No open music is allowed in studios unless agreed upon by everyone sharing the studios. Be sure to bring headphones. 

MAIN FLOOR STUDIO

UPSTAIRS STUDIOS

HEALTH & SAFETY

AAR is concerned with all of our residents’ health and safety, especially in the studio. Proper chemical hygiene should always be used to reduce the risk of fire, maintain indoor air quality, and prevent sensitivities caused by overexposure.  We ask that you keep all art materials contained to your studio space.

The use of power tools is prohibited, with exceptions for small hand-held tools such as drills. An extensive list of studio materials will be sent to you prior to your arrival.

A first aid kit and portable eye wash station will be available in the upstairs studio.

We require that all residents use only artist quality odorless solvents in their studios, which we have supplied (at cost) in the small selection of art supplies available for purchase. Please note that "odorless" does not mean that the vapors are non-toxic, so please use proper ventilation at all times. Residents should be aware that the use of all solvents present safety hazards and should be used responsibly to protect the health and safety of the entire AAR community.

Please abide by the following AAR Safety Protocols:

• You are responsible for the safe handling of all your materials: please make the effort to learn and practice proper safety with tools and materials before using them at AAR.

• Keep all chemical containers sealed, intact, and clean.

• Use proper disposal units for solvent-saturated cloths.

• Please purchase only as much solvent as you need for your stay: solvent disposal is expensive and is treated as hazardous waste material.

• Fixatives and other aerosols must be sprayed outside. The AAR building is only ventilated by opening a window.

If you have any questions or concerns about any specialized products or techniques you plan to employ while here, please contact us.