What—a residency at IKEA?
We get it. We’re basically asking you to hang out at IKEA for an afternoon with a stranger. In a world where the “third space” is disappearing, IKEA offers a public arena for anyone to chill out and vibe. You can sit in the café and gab over lunch or you can sign up to be a part of the IKEA family to qualify for unlimited free coffee—seriously! The idea is to capitalize on this mecca of capitalism for more creative, authentic pursuits. Residents will be given a welcome package at the start of the residency.
What is expected of me at IKEA residency?
The IKEA residency is what you make it. The only core tenet of the program is to foster dialogue and collaboration between like minded creatives who might not have met otherwise. Our only expectations are for residents to meet up at IKEA with your curated pair and to join the session cohort for dinner at IKEA on the dates specified.
How does one use this residency?
Each session will feature a group of artists who will be organized into curated pairs and invited to meet up at the IKEA in Burbank at a mutually convenient date and time.
The meeting is a sort-of choose your own adventure. Artists are encouraged to collaborate on a piece together, or make plans to do so, as well as critique one another’s works, discuss their respective practices, or even choose from some of our selected discussion prompts and artistic exercises <hyperlinked>. Ultimately it is up to the artists to decide what this residency will mean to them, it can be as engaging as you make it.
At the end of each session, the entire group of artists will reconvene at the IKEA for a dinner party where they will be invited to share their findings with one another.
Does IKEA residency have plans to give artists opportunities post-residency?
This broader atmosphere of collaboration is also open ended. We’re interested in organizing an exhibition of works created from or inspired by this residency, as well as organizing an accompanied literary reading. Ultimately, the ephemera of this residency could be anything, and we’re more than open to hearing your ideas.
What are the dates for upcoming IKEA residency sessions?
The IKEA residency is currently undergoing restructuring and all announcements for upcoming sessions are pending. Please stay tuned!
When is the deadline to apply?
TBD.
Who is eligible to apply?
Artist, writers, and makers in the LA area. If you are not selected to take part in our IKEA residency, we totally encourage you to create your own! We literally cannot and would not want to stop you <3
Is there wifi?
Yes, there is free wifi. IKEA offers free Wi-Fi for in-store customers upon acceptance of IKEA free Wi-Fi terms and conditions.
What supplies should I bring?
Whatever you normally prefer to work with. Residents are also welcome to use IKEA for supplies.
How big is the studio space?
IKEA Burbank is the largest IKEA in the nation and the 2nd largest globally (second to IKEA Seoul). The premises is 3-stories with over 50 rooms totalling 456,000 sq.-ft.
How do I get there?
From the I-5 Take Exit 146A toward Olive Ave. Then a slight right onto East Angeleno Ave. Then take a right onto IKEA Way.
Is this an official residency in partnership with IKEA?
No.
Why isn’t the art at IKEA?
The art isn’t at IKEA because we’re not officially affliated and strive to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the Burbank IKEA and its staff.
How do I get free coffee at the residency?
IKEA’s free membership offers free coffee. Residents are not required to join but may do so if they wish to obtain free coffee as they work. You can sign up ahead of time here.
