Obee Editions Residency
Obee Editions offers a collaborative artist residency focused on the creation of original fine art printmaking projects. Artists work one on one with Tamarind Master Printer Perry Obee to develop new work through traditional and contemporary printmaking techniques.
This is a collaborative residency, not a class, instructional workshop, or studio rental. It is a working partnership with a shared creative process and a clear division of labor between artist and printer. As master printer, Perry handles the technical aspects of printing, while the artist leads all aesthetic and conceptual decisions. Through sustained dialogue and shared decision making, projects evolve organically and take twists and turns to arrive at outcomes that surprise both artist and printer.
Artists working in any medium are encouraged to apply. Prior printmaking experience is welcome but not required. Non-printmakers are especially well suited to the benefits of working with a professional printer.
Residency Experience
Residents can expect a focused, immersive studio experience that emphasizes experimentation, translation, and collaboration.
During the residency, artists will:
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Work closely with a professional printer to realize their ideas through new print processes.
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Explore traditional and contemporary printmaking techniques
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Experiment with materials, scale, and process
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Produce a body of work reflecting their artistic vision
Processes may include lithography, monotype, relief, chine collé, digital processes, artist books, or hybrid approaches. There is no prescribed process or formula. Each residency is shaped around the artist, the work, and what the project calls for.
Who Should Apply
This residency is well suited for artists who:
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Have a strong foundation in any art medium
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Are open to experimentation and risk taking
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Are curious about printmaking and its creative possibilities
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Are interested in collaborative, process driven work
Artists do not need to come to the residency with a printmaking background. In fact, non-printmakers are especially well suited to this residency, as they can take full advantage of working with a professional printer without having an established printmaking practice of their own.
The focus is on bringing an existing artistic practice, ideas, and ways of working into the studio and discovering what working with a collaborative printer can add, without needing to become printmakers themselves.
Residency Details
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Location: Obee Editions, Black Mountain, North Carolina
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Duration: Flexible, up to two weeks. Three day minimum
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Schedule: Residencies are scheduled based on studio availability. Applicants should propose at least two possible date ranges. Date requests will be taken into consideration, but flexibility is expected.
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Cost: Project dependent. Rates vary based on scope, duration, and project type. Please reach out for details.
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Lodging & Travel: Visiting artists arrange their own lodging and travel. Local recommendations can be provided.
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Funding: External funding is common. Support materials for grant applications are available to accepted candidates upon request.
How to Apply
Please submit the following materials:
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A portfolio of 5 to 10 images
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An artist statement, 1 to 2 pages
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A brief project proposal outlining your goals and interests, 1 to 2 pages (see below)
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Proposed residency dates: Please include at least two possible date ranges. Scheduling is dependent on studio availability. Date requests will be considered, but flexibility is expected.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Email materials to perryobee@gmail.com
Application Guidelines
The proposal does not need to be fully formed or locked in. This residency is collaborative by design, and many projects take shape through conversation. Think of the proposal as a way to communicate your interests, curiosities, and working style rather than a finalized plan. Together, we will determine the scope, processes, and direction that make the most sense for your time in the studio.
Short, informal responses are completely acceptable. Not all questions below need to be addressed.
Proposal Questions
Applicants may find it helpful to consider the following:
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Do you have a specific project in mind, or are you still exploring ideas?
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What draws you to printmaking or to collaborating with a printer at this point in your practice?
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Are there particular printmaking processes you are curious about exploring?
(For example lithography, monotype, relief, chine collé, digital processes, artist books, or other approaches.) -
Do you imagine producing a limited edition, a series of unique prints, or a mix of both?
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Are there approximate sizes you are interested in working at, or are you open to determining scale collaboratively?
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How much time do you anticipate having available for the residency, between three days and two weeks?
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What is your primary medium or way of working outside of print?
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Do you have prior printmaking experience? If so, in what capacity?
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Have you collaborated with a printer or fabricator before?
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Are there technical, conceptual, or logistical goals you hope to explore during the residency?
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What date ranges are you available for the residency? Please provide at least 2 options.
Uncertainty is welcome. Many strong projects begin without a fixed outcome.
Contact us to request information about contract printing or request our pricing plan