Cultivating Coexistence at the Center of the Earth

At the passage between South and Central America, dense rainforests meet with rugged coastlines and the Caribbean Sea. Spanning the edges of countries, borders and cultures, this is a transitional and migratory space both for tropical megabiodiversity to flourish and a cradle for cultural diversity and exchange. Amidst the embracing arms of the rainforest out to the marine life of the coastal reefs, it remains a place where dialogues of the earth persist despite ongoing challenges; as impacts of human conflict, environmental exploitation, and global climate challenges are etched into the land echoing our global struggles. 

Our residencies move physical geographies—becoming crucibles for addressing pressing concerns of our time. As an area that exemplifies both connection and division, it poses the question: How can we foster coexistence in an increasingly fractured world? We invite our residents to delve into these matters while forming meaningful connections within the territory, the people and the land. Engaging in projects that explore our connections to the natural world— and fostering a confluence of ideas and reciprocal practices that can open dialogues and reflection.

Our site-responsive residency programs offer balance between guided and self-directed exploration centred around ecological and sociopolitical themes. Participants from diverse fields can engage with local ecologies and cultures through a curated mix of cultural encounters, research trips, and experiential learning. This approach supports personal and professional growth, and empowers creators to address global issues and foster meaningful connections with both the environment and local communities, within a dynamic framework that encourages artistic experimentation beyond traditional settings, promoting meaningful dialogues and connections with the natural world and local communities.

Applications are currently open to join for 3 weeks minimum during the following time periods:

2025

• 17 October - 7 November 2025

We operate a sliding scale of fees ranging from £300 to £2,600, depending o the length of stay and the amount of funding awarded.

Weekly rates are as follows:

• Program Fee with additional support: from £300 - £600 p week (depending on funding / availability) 

  Program Fees with Financial Aid: £633 p week 

  Program Fees Standard Rate (full cost): £867/week

If cost is a barrier, we strongly encourage you to get in touch — we’ll do our best to make participation possible.

We also offer additional reduced rates and funded places each year for Latin American and BIPOC artists in need of support.

Let us know through the application form or email if you would like to be considered for this.

What Your Fee Includes

Our program fees reflect local costs and provide access to:

• Our curated residency program of cultural encounters, excursions, and contextual activities - with both guided and self-directed time

• Individual artist support and collective sharing sessions

• A dedicated team and support from local collaborators

• Shared accommodation in simple, locally-based living and working spaces: We work with local acommodations and at each location we provide bedroom, kitchen, toilet, and shower with outdoor communal work areas.

External Funding Support

As an independent, non-profit, artist-led organisation, we cannot currently provide full funding. However:

• Many past participants have successfully obtained external funding to attend

• We can support your efforts by providing:

  • Letters of support

  • Budget templates

  • Other relevant documentation

Please reach out if you are exploring this route — we’re happy to assist.

La Wayaka Current invites international practitioners—artists, thinkers, and activists—from various disciplines, who are exploring ecological issues through their work. We welcome individuals at various professional stages from both the arts and other contemporary fields, who are open to contribute, collaborate, and face new challenges.

Our groups typically range from 5-14 members, varying by season. Some knowledge of Spanish and being prepared for demanding conditions is helpful but not necessary; our programs are flexible.

We currently have a rolling deadline ongoing, and decisions are made within 10-15 days after submission, depending on the time of year.

Please apply through our application form to join our upcoming programs.