Self-Directed Residencies (Independent Study)
Self-Directed Residencies (the Independent Study program) are designed to support individuals in their personal practice, providing a space to slow down, reflect, and respond.
We believe that dedicated time and space for creation, alongside thoughtful and responsible engagement with territories beyond our own, are essential to shaping new ways of thinking, working & being.
More details:
Overview
→ Residency Structure
There is no structured programming aside from shared meals 4x / week.
The experience is open and self-directed Residents shape their own time, with optional guidance and support from the Pocoapoco team.
→ Who its For
Artists, cultural workers & thinkers who:
Prefer minimal structure
Are self-directed and independent
Need concentrated time to work
We welcome individuals working across fields, including but not limited to:
Visual art, performance, and music
Journalism, writing, and publishing
Film and media
Architecture and design
Technology and research
Social practice, education, and public policy
→ Language
Residents must be fluent in Spanish or English, but do not need to be fluent both. We strongly encourage a baseline level of Spanish for all international participants.
→ What’s Included
Accommodation
Shared workspaces in the residency house
Meals (4x per week)
Airport pick-up and transportation to the residency upon arrival
Support and tailored introductions from the Pocoapoco team
Access to Pocoapoco’s broader international network
During their stay at Pocoapoco, participants are invited to focus primarily on independent work while being embedded in a shared creative environment that encourages exchange, reflection, and dialogue. The residency is designed to support deep, self-directed practice alongside moments of informal connection with others working across disciplines.
Residents are provided with housing and shared meals, allowing them to fully settle into daily life and concentrate on their projects. Throughout the residency, Pocoapoco offers tailored introductions and suggestions for visits to relevant sites, organizations, and individuals, drawing on an extended network of local artists, cultural workers, and institutions to support each participant’s interests and research.
Beyond the immediate residency period, participants become part of Pocoapoco’s broader international network of creative thinkers and practitioners. This ongoing community offers a foundation for continued conversation, collaboration, and exchange well beyond their time in Oaxaca.
Aside from shared meals, there is no structured group programming during the Independent Study Residency.