The Raft Residency

The Raft Residency is a print-based artist residency and artist book program created by Art Resource in partnership with Mirabo Press and the family of Elisabeth Samuels.

Established in honor of Elisabeth Samuels, the residency reflects her enduring belief in artists, creative experimentation, and the power of art to connect people and strengthen communities. 

Throughout her life, Elisabeth championed artists with generosity, curiosity, encouragement, and a deep commitment to helping others realize their potential. The residency carries that spirit forward.

Each year, selected artists are provided dedicated time, space, technical resources, and collaborative support to develop new work through print-based practice. Working alongside master printers at Mirabo Press, artists are encouraged to experiment, expand their creative process, and pursue ambitious projects that may not otherwise be possible.

A central component of the residency is the creation of an artist book. Produced in collaboration with Mirabo Press, each publication serves as both a record of the artist's residency experience and a platform for sharing their work with a broader audience. Together, these books will form a growing archive that documents contemporary artistic practice and the creative life of our region.

The residency culminates in public programs, exhibitions, conversations, and educational opportunities designed to connect artists and audiences while fostering deeper engagement with contemporary art.

Why "The Raft"?

A raft is both a vessel and a gathering place.

It carries people forward while creating space for connection, collaboration, and shared discovery. Like a raft, this residency is designed to support artists as they navigate new ideas, take creative risks, and explore unfamiliar territory. It is a place of encouragement, experimentation, and community.

Supporting the Residency

The Raft Residency is sustained through the generosity of individuals, businesses, foundations, and community partners who believe in the importance of supporting artists and creative practice.

Contributions to The Raft Residency Fund directly support:

• Artist stipends
• Studio and production costs
• Artist book creation and printing
• Public exhibitions and educational programs
• Long-term opportunities for regional artists

Supporters may contribute at any level or choose to purchase residency artist books, helping to ensure that future artists have access to the time, resources, and encouragement needed to create meaningful new work.

Together, we are building a lasting legacy that honors Elisabeth Samuels while investing in the future of artists and the communities they enrich.

The Inaugural Residency Artist Book

The first publication in the series features work by Juan Bordes and was created in collaboration with artist and printer DJ Carr and the team at Mirabo Press. Proceeds from the book directly support future residency artists and help sustain the program for years to come.