Applications for the January 2027 residency open January 1, 2026, and close July 31, 2026. Apply here. All applicants will be notified in September 2026.

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How long is the residency?

This is a two-week residency that occurs in January, and you are expected to stay the entire time.

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How many artists are accepted?

There are around 10 artists each year.

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Where is it located?

The residency is located on scenic Bald Head Island, NC.

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How do you get there?

You will arrive via ferry from Deep Point Marina in Southport. 

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There will be a welcome dinner before the residency, as well as a group exhibition at the conclusion, both in Wilmington, NC. If you need lodging in Wilmington, Board members and friends of the residency will host residents.

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Is housing provided?

Yes, private homeowners generously donate their homes for the program to use during the two weeks. Single bedrooms and bathrooms are limited, so sharing spaces is likely. If you have health concerns and need a single room, please let the residency know so accommodations can be made.

As this is a shared living environment, you will be expected to help keep things tidy. 

 

Where is the studio space?

This is a lively, community-based residency program, and you will be sharing studio space with the other artists. A local restaurant provides a shared working space. You can also create outdoors around the island and in the houses. Artists must be respectful of the spaces and leave them the way they found them. The residency provides plastic to cover tables, etc.

Is food provided?

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Dinners will be provided by local Wilmington cooks and chefs each night (leftovers can be used for lunches). Wine is provided for meal time enjoyment. Coffee, condiments, snacks and simple breakfast foods are also provided. 

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Houses have a full kitchen. You can bring your own food as well. There is also a small grocery story on the island.

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The BHI Conservation and Education Committee hosts artists and board members for a potluck dinner one night during the second week of the residency. This is a social meal where you’ll interact with BHI residents.

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How do you get around the island?

There are a few golf carts and bikes available for your use, but be prepared to share. Much of the island is walkable as well. 

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Is there a fee to attend?

Yes, the 2027 cost to attend is $250 to cover ferry tickets, food, and other essentials. 

Artists expected to donate two pieces created during the residency. NBIAR will also take 25% of artists' sales during the residency, Open Studio, and group exhibition (a one-month period) at the conclusion of the residency.

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Do you partner with any other organizations?

No Boundaries is proud to partner each year with the DREAMS Center for Arts Education and the Bald Head Island Conservancy. With support from a NBIAR Board Member, one artist from the residency is offered the opportunity to create a painting featuring local flora and fauna in collaboration with students who visit the island from DREAMS. 

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Students visit for one afternoon in the middle of the two-week stay, and spend about 2–3 hours with the artists. An NBIAR representative will reach out to interested artists before the residency to confirm and plan the piece.

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Can I have guests?

There will be an Open Studio during the second week, where you can invite guests to view the work.

 

Are pets allowed?

No.