ACES Wilderness Retreat at Toklat
About the role
The ACES Wilderness Residency at Toklat, administered by the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES), offers a four-week, $2,500-stipended residency for a single artist whose work engages environmental challenges through artistic expression. The residency is situated at 9,500 ft in the historic Castle Creek Valley at the Catto Center.
Residents are expected to devote the majority of their time to their project, may lead workshops or public talks, and are encouraged to engage informally with staff and the local community. The application cycle opens July 1, 2026, and closes August 15, 2026 (midnight MST). Selections are announced by October 1, 2026, with residency periods available in January, April, and October. No application fee is required.
Residency details
- Private, ADA-compliant lodging in Jessica’s Cabin
- Fully equipped kitchenette
- Studio space
- Internet access
- Shared facilities including a chef’s kitchen, laundry, and library
- Outdoor amenities such as hiking, skiing, and a fire circle
- Opportunity to give an artist talk or lead workshops
- Mentorship from ACES staff
- Contract agreement outlining expectations
Requirements
- Open to individual artists of any career stage working at the intersection of environmental challenges and artistic practice
- Must be able to work independently for four weeks
- Spouses, partners, guests, and pets are not permitted
- Applicants must provide their own food and transportation
- Must be able to travel to and stay at 9,500 ft elevation
- ADA-accessible lodging provided
The program particularly values artists in visual or environmental arts and those with diverse cultural identities and lived experiences.
What's offered
- $2,500 stipend
- Housing provided
Application deadline: August 15, 2026.