About Quincho—Argentinian Network of Art Residencies
QUINCHO NETWORK RED QUINCHO is a non-profit organisation that unites art residencies in Argentina. More than 30 projects from across the country are currently part of this network, bringing together cultural managers, art producers, programmes and organisations dedicated to the development of art residencies. With a common interest in an inclusive, diverse and nationwide approach, Quincho aims to foster a weaving of both national and international collaboration and cooperation, promoting the strengthening of the sector.
Our history
In 2020, the art residencies in Argentina initiated a collaborative and supportive space in response to the emergency brought on by the pandemic. We held virtual meetings that facilitated initial connections among numerous projects that were previously unknown to each other, and, shortly thereafter, these meetings gathered substantial participation and began to define an identity for the network. Historical indicators and the current status of residencies were surveyed while institutional connections were established, allowing us to bring visibility to challenges specific to our sector and gain support for various projects.
In 2021, we formally established Red Quincho as a legal organisation (a civil association based in Argentina), marking a critical step in providing long-term legal validity to the network.
Since 2021, we have organised an annual meeting for the network, which we call R/r: Residencies in residence. The first meeting in 2021 had the support of CCEBA (Centro Cultural España en Buenos Aires) through the Futura program, and took place at four different residency spaces in Buenos Aires.
By “Residencies”, we understand any project that hosts and develops art residencies as either its main activity or one of its primary activities.These are projects that:
- Offer a time and place with conditions suitable for the development of artistic and cultural projects, works, and researches related to expressions in any discipline. Provide an experience outside the usual environment of its residents, offering a displacement from their habitual workspace.
- Develop programs of at least two weeks, allowing residents to engage in a creative process and familiarise themselves with the production space. Foster opportunities to build connections and collaborations among residents, as well as with other participants in the artistic and cultural communities
Quincho brings together projects with a wide range of profiles, shaped by the particularities of diverse identities, geographies and cultures. The variety in work formats upholds a set of Good Practices that we co-develop as members of the Network to foster the improvement of art residencies. These are:
- Hospitality and clear rules for cohabitation
- Clarity in describing the production and research focus of the residency project
- Adherence to all agreements previously established with the residents
- Ongoing support and guidance during the resident’s production process
- Knowledge of the artists prior to their arrival to understand their work and needs
- Promoting communication and connection after the residency period ends
- Creating activities that help residents engage with the residency’s artistic and sociocultural environment
Residencies aspiring to join the network are interviewed by a commission dedicated to the admission of new members. Once the presentation is made, the commission presents the recommendation to the active members for approval.
Residencies with or without legal status that demonstrate interest in the purpose of the Association can join the network.
Members must pay the membership fee, adhere to the principles and the code of good practices of the Association, and participate in the activities of the Network.
The accepted residencies can join as ACTIVE or ASSOCIATE members. Active members will have the right to speak and vote in the General Assembly. Associate members will have the right to speak but not to vote, and will not be able to elect or be elected to the social bodies. All members will have the opportunity to participate in monthly open meetings.
Our Objectives
To foster the sustainability and visibility of the projects that are part of the network
Promote, in collaboration with public organizations and institutions, policies and practices for the recognition of the sector and financial support for both the spaces and the artists circulating between these spaces.
Establish residencies as a category within the cultural sector, recognizing their specificity, autonomy, and importance.
Foster good professional practices within the sector.
Create spaces for dialogue between residency programs at a national level, strengthening their organizational capacities.
Create international exchange opportunities.
Contribute to the mobility of artists and other art professionals, promoting sustainable creative exchange.