Centrum
Centrum
At Centrum, the power of the arts brings people together. Whether you are four years of age or 99, picking a banjo, watching a world-class performance, writing a poem, or soaking up inspiration, at Centrum your creativity is the key to a more vibrant and inclusive world. Today, these values—and your support—are more vital than ever.
Centrum’s Artist in Residency Program offers a unique opportunity for artists, writers, and creatives across disciplines to focus on their craft in a tranquil, supportive setting. Located at Fort Worden State Park, our residencies provide the time, space, and resources for artists to explore new ideas, develop their work, and connect with a community of peers—all within the inspiring natural beauty of Port Townsend, Washington.
Centrum offers a range of residencies designed to support artists at various stages of their creative journeys. Each residency offers flexible workspaces, uninterrupted time for focused work, and the chance to engage with a diverse artistic community. We are now accepting Applications for 2026 for Self-Directed, Emerging Artist, and In the Making Residencies.
Artists, writers, performers, musicians, and creative professionals of all disciplines are encouraged to customize their time and conduct self-directed residencies. Projects might be the creative work of an individual or encompass the collaborative work of a group. Centrum assists in making connections to community partners and organizations as projects may dictate, including proposals that involve locations on the Fort Worden State Park. Residents are encouraged, but not required, to participate in open studios and provide talks, readings, or other modes of engagement with the community of Port Townsend.
Charming and semi-rustic cabins and apartments contain private bedrooms and shared kitchens. Each 2-3 bedroom unit has a living room/dining room space, a fully equipped kitchen, and full bathroom. Artists are housed according to availability and individual working habits, preferences and needs.
Studio spaces are in separate buildings and come in several shapes and sizes. Some spaces have access to sinks and wall space. Currently there are no studio spaces with ventilation, so the use of oil or toxic materials is discouraged. The Program Manager will work with artists on a case-by-case basis to determine the best location for various projects and mediums. Additional fees apply for studio spaces. All technical equipment or supplies must be provided by the resident.
Centrum partners with Corvidae Press to provide a printmaking facility for those with previous printmaking experience. Corvidae is a cooperative-run printing studio and the studio is a shared space. If you are interested in using Corvidae, you must indicate this on your application to be considered. Also, if you are interested in connecting with Rainshadow Recording, Madrona MindBody Institute, the Port Townsend School of Woodworking, the Port Townsend School of the Arts, or another organization on campus or in Port Townsend, please indicate your interest on your application.
Located within the Fort Worden State Park, Centrum residencies take place on a historic campus, formerly a turn-of-the-century army base. Shopping, grocery stores, restaurants, and cultural sites are accessible by public transit, biking, or a 5-10 minute drive away.
The park is 440 acres and full of hiking trails, beach access, and historical fixtures. It is possible to work in some of the unusual batteries and bunkers with permission from the State Park.