Sou’wester Teaching Ceramic Artist Residency

Are you a ceramic artist with a passion for teaching? The Sou’wester and Ilwaco Artworks Community Clay Studio invites innovative artist educators from across the country to join our Teaching Artist Residency program. Open to local, regional, and national ceramicists, this residency is designed for artists eager to share their skills, spark creative exchange, and inspire our vibrant coastal community.

Our program offers reduced weekly rates for artists who wish to immerse themselves in their own creative pursuits while also leading a workshop. It is a chance to step away from daily demands, follow a creative thread, and dedicate uninterrupted time to your practice while engaging others in the process of learning.

Residency Structure

Teaching residents may lead either a one-day or two-day workshop as part of their residency. There is no fee to apply, and each residency includes accommodations at the Sou’wester Lodge along with a teaching stipend.

1-Day Workshops
Compensation includes a seven-night stay at the Sou’wester Lodge (typically Thursday 4:00pm through Thursday 11:00am) plus a $100 stipend. Workshops are scheduled on Saturdays from 2:00–6:00pm.

2-Day Workshops
Compensation includes a seven-night stay at the Sou’wester Lodge (typically Thursday 4:00pm through Thursday 11:00am) plus a $200 stipend. Workshops take place on Saturday/Sunday from 2:00–6:00pm.

Beyond the workshop, the residency is self-directed. Artists are encouraged to use their time in ways that best support their process, whether starting or advancing a project or experimenting with new ideas.

During your residency, you will have full access to the Ilwaco Artworks Community Clay Studio, including the use of studio equipment, tools, and glazes. The studio is a shared community space, so you will be working alongside other artists and members. Clay is purchased separately, or you may bring your own cone 6 clay with prior approval from our studio manager. To request approval for outside clay or glazes, please email Hans at ilwacoartworks@gmail.com. A studio orientation is provided at the start of each residency to help you get acquainted with the space.

National Visiting Artist Residencies

For artists traveling from outside the Pacific Northwest, we offer an extended residency option. National Visiting Artists may stay for two weeks, leading two workshops and, if desired, hosting an artist talk to share their work with the community.

Your Stay

Every accommodation at the Sou’wester is unique, offering its own charm and character. With a mix of lodge suites, vintage trailers, minimalist trailers and cabins, each space is just steps from fresh coffee and the beach. All accommodations are equipped with fresh bedding, basic cooking utensils and towels.

You will have access to the Sou’wester grounds and communal spaces including the lodge living room and Velvet Lounge. Wellness amenities such as the Garden Spa & Finnish sauna and QT Tea Trailer are also available by appointment.

If you’d like to connect with fellow artists, join us for our weekly tea and zine-making gathering every Tuesday afternoon. It’s a relaxed space for current artists-in-residence to meet, share ideas, and co-create in the cozy lodge living room.