torna Residency - FAQs
Who is the residency for and how can I apply?
Please see THIS PAGE for more information.
When can I come and how long can I stay?
This year (2024) torna residency will take place in two two-week time slots: between 4th-18th August and 18th August-01st September.
What does the residency cost?
The residency fee is 5700 TL (140 GBP, 160 Euros) per week.
(We are doing our best to keep this fee as low as possible. It is not set for us to make any profit from, but is a small help towards the torna projects, for us to keep going independently.)
What is and is not included in the fee?
- You will get a private bedroom and shared bathroom, kitchen and studio-space.
- You will have access to the household machines and most of the general arts tools & supplies.
- All meals are included in the fee. Most of the time we'll cook or prepare the food for you. Some days you may need to prepare your own food.
- We will provide you with towels and bedding.
- We have an extra bicycle in Şile if you'd like to cycle your way around town during your stay.
Unfortunately we can't fund your personal travel costs and individual work materials at the moment.
Overseas applicants may apply to various international funding organisations. Previous torna residents have received funding from these organisations: Creative Scotland, Arts Council Ireland, Arts Council Wales, Asia Link Australia, Arts Council
Who will I be living with?
You will be living with us: Merve, David and Idris. Merve runs the residency, David runs the making of the houses and Idris is 5 years old and is very much part of the house life. We will make sure you will get your own space, time and privacy in order to get on with your work. At times, you can even have the whole house to yourself for some of the week. However, please be aware that this is a residency with a small child present.
Can I bring my child?
Unfortunately we are not able to have children this year.
Can I come with my partner or collaborator?
Unfortunately this year we won't be able to have more than one artist at a time as our spaces will be limited.
Are there any local shops around?
Yes. You can find pretty much everything in Şile. There are two great farmers' markets every Friday and Sunday. There are also some shops for various materials in town.
Do you have Wifi?
Yes, we have wifi.
Laundry? Cleaning?
You will be kindly expected to do your usual bits to keep your personal and shared living spaces relatively tidy and clean. You will be provided with bedding and towels and we have a washing machine you can use whenever you need to.
What about dietary restrictions?
Do let us know if there is anything you don't eat. Our meals will mostly be prepared using local and fresh vegetables and fruits; yogurts and cheese; various legumes as well as occasional meat. There will always be vegetarian and vegan alternatives at the table as most of Turkish summer dishes are already vegetarian.