03/28/2023
I absolutely LOVE this idea!! As a single mom myself, I know just how exhausting it can be and how important rest is. 💗💗
EDIT: Due to overwhelming interest, the application period will now close on April 4. Applications received after that date will be considered for our next free residency. Thank you so much for your enthusiasm — I wish I could offer a week to each of the 615 applicants so far!
Applications are now open for a free one-week stay in the Old Knitting Factory’s residency space, including a cash stipend to apply to childcare costs. The residency is open to single mothers and other twice-marginalized single parents from anywhere in the world. Come enjoy the beauty and peace of Connemara, and take some time to rest and honor yourself and your children.
Inspired by the work of The Nap Ministry, adrienne maree brown, and The Mae House, I am offering it as a rest residency, meaning that you don’t have to be an artist to apply; you just have to be a single mom (or other twice-marginalized single parent) who could use some rest. And couldn’t we all?
You’ll have use of our residency space for any week of your choosing, and you are welcome to bring your children or not, as best suits your needs. The space features a double bed, fold-out single bed, futon, and pack-and-play crib. The resident will receive a €250 cash stipend toward childcare costs, to use at your discretion.
People anywhere in the world are welcome to apply, and the recipient will choose the dates that suit them. Travel costs are not included but I am happy to share a fundraiser for the recipient. Please find our FAQ page here: https://oldknittingfactory.com/single-mother-retreats
I want to keep it simple and accessible, so the application will reflect that:
To apply, email oldknittingfactory@gmail.com with a brief statement (up to 500 words, shorter is fine!) on why this residency would be useful to you and your children (whether they will come with you or stay with someone else while you rest).
Nominations on behalf of other people will not be accepted; this is the one major change I'm making from last year's residency, when I saw several applicants ask friends to nominate them instead of feeling able to apply themselves. As a single parent myself, I have learned how hard and how powerful it is to acknowledge in writing that you need and deserve support.
Learn more about the Old Knitting Factory and support our work at
https://oldknittingfactory.com/
