Let us start by our name: AiR is the name code for Artist-in-Residence and 351 is the country´s locator.
Our activities started in late 2016, with the artist-in-residence Gary Hill. Since then the organization has hosted international artists and curators. Its studio based professional development program anchors itself on the thriving local art scene and stretches over a national and international network.
Our team provides regular curatorial expertise and highly skilled technical assistance, consolidating the production of new works. Through institutional partnerships, AiR 351´s activities encompass a variety of contexts such as museums, universities and art schools. Its main purpose is to generate critical mass while furthering artistic projects and exchanges. AiR 351 is a space of confluence, dialogue and critical thinking.
The organization relies on the expertise of an international Strategic Advisory Board, from a diversity of cultural backgrounds and also on the assistance of an external and rotating International Selection Committee.
AiR 351´s headquarters are located in a charismatic building, Escola Monumento D. Luiz I, a former primary school, which was fully renovated by the municipality for this purpose. There are six individual studios and residents may also share common spaces such as a kitchen, a small library and the school yard. Here, spontaneous gatherings and planned meetings occur. The quiet setting and the proximity to the ocean make it a privileged retreat to think and create while having an easy access to Lisbon, either by car or train (30-45 min away), which is 5 mins walking distance. In the surroundings there is a park (Parque Marechal Carmona), beautiful cliffs in walking or biking distance (Guincho), and a variety of nice places where to eat just around the corner.
Many times a residency at AiR 351 is just the beginning of a long term engagement with the AiR 351 and local community that extends in manifold ramifications. If you wish to know more about us you can also read our residents Testimonials here.
Goals
—to build a stimulating atmosphere towards unfolding the creative and research processes;
—to enhance production and dissemination of contemporary art;
—to stimulate experimentation and exchange;
—to strengthen the internationalization of art professionals;
—to contribute to artistic professional development;
—to work in collaboration with national and international individuals, communities and organizations, namely art schools, universities, museums and art centers.
