Reimagine Futures in the Atacama´s Expanse

The Atacama Desert is an ethereal landscape that invites us to meditate on the liminal spaces between humanity and vast, more-than-human worlds. With its volcanic plains, metamorphic pools, and night skies that intertwine our human narrative with the cosmos, it presents a place for contemplation and beckons us to rethink our bond with the natural world. The extreme conditions of the territory challenge our perceptions of life on Earth, revealing stories of resilience and coexistence in the face of extreme adversity. As one of the driest habitats on the planet, it faces threats from over-mining and excessive water usage, reflecting broader narratives of environmental exploitation and human discord of our time. 

Beyond a geographical location; the Atacama offers an expansive territory for ideas and processes to occur. We encourage our residents to embark on projects that explore themes through diverse and multifaceted approaches during their time with us. Engaging in meaningful relationships within the territory as they work on creative research projects.

Our site-responsive residency programs offer balance between guided and self-directed exploration centred around ecological and sociopolitical themes. Participants from diverse fields can engage with local ecologies and cultures through a curated mix of cultural encounters, research trips, and experiential learning. This approach supports personal and professional growth, and empowers creators to address global issues and foster meaningful connections with both the environment and local communities, within a dynamic framework that encourages artistic experimentation beyond traditional settings, promoting meaningful dialogues and connections with the natural world and local communities.

Applications are currently open to join for 3 weeks minimum during the following time periods:

2025

• March 9 - March 30, 2025

• April 5 - April 26, 2025

• May 3 - May 24, 2025

• September 27 - October 18, 2025

• October 24 - November 14, 2025

• November 20 - December 11, 2025

The 3-week program fee is GBP 2,600. We offer a GBP 700 financial aid for those needing extra support, reducing the fee to GBP 1,900. The minimum stay is 3 weeks to ensure a meaningful experience, but extensions are possible for deeper engagement and exploration, with additional financial aid for longer stays available upon request.

We cannot provide funding as we are an independent, non-profit, artist led organization however many artists have been granted funding to join us in the past and we encourage artists to do this if they require more support. Our program fees reflect local costs.  

We currently offer financial aid on all of our programs. Select the financial aid option when applying if you need this. If accepted, you'll pay a deposit to secure your spot, with the balance due 90 days before starting. Payment plans are available.

We can offer reduced fees for artists based in Latin America, and BIPOC artists each year who require additional support. We have an option to select this in our application form if you need this.

The fees include a curated program that offers both guided activities and time for self-directed practice. Our program includes cultural encounters, excursions, individual artist support, and group sharing activities. Participants receive support from a dedicated team, including our local collaborators. 

Accommodations are shared, featuring multifunctional living and workspaces in simple and local accommodation, inclusive of bedrooms, toilet, shower, and kitchen, alongside communal outdoor work areas. Group airport transfers are provided from the nearest specified airport at set times on both the first and last day of the residency.

Additional Funding and Support

Applicants should explore funding options early and can receive our assistance with external funding applications, including advice and support documentation. However, participants must lead the funding search; we don’t guarantee funding or apply on someone’s behalf.

La Wayaka Current invites international practitioners—artists, thinkers, and activists—from various disciplines, who are exploring ecological issues through their work. We welcome individuals at various professional stages from both the arts and other contemporary fields, who are open to contribute, collaborate, and face new challenges.

Our groups typically range from 5-14 members, varying by season. Some knowledge of Spanish and being prepared for demanding conditions is helpful but not necessary; our programs are flexible.

We currently have a rolling deadline ongoing, and decisions are made within 10-15 days after submission, depending on the time of year.

Please apply through our application form to join our upcoming programs.