SPACE - Artist in Residence Program

SPACE (Skirvin Paseo Artist Creativity Exposition) is a unique urban Artist in Residence program in which emerging visual artists who are members of the Paseo Arts Association can apply for a yearlong on-site residency in Oklahoma City’s premier downtown landmark hotel, the Skirvin Hilton. This program has offered a working art studio and gallery that is open to the public during established business hours as well as a $750 per month stipend and complimentary meals in the hotel to a selected artist each year.

The SPACE Artist in Residence program is currently seeking a new location as the Skirvin Hilton Hotel studio is no longer available. Calls for applicants have been paused for the time being. If you would like to be notified when applications reopen, please email theresa@thepaseo.org.

Previous SPACE Artists in Residence will have artwork on display in a special art showcase this May 2024 at the Paseo Arts and Creativity Center.

SPACE 2022-23 Artist in Residence

LAQUINCEY REED

LaQuincey was the tenth artist for the SPACE program. LaQuincey, is an accomplished artist and sculptor and worked in the historic hotel’s studio space through December 2023. After LaQuincey’s residency ended, he moved to a new studio, available by appointment only in Downtown OKC. Contact LaQuincey to make an appointment!

“I have always enjoyed the expressiveness that an artist can capture in the human figure. I began as a painter and was introduced to sculpting in my undergraduate at the University of Oklahoma. After graduation, I worked for a sculptor on the Oklahoma Landrun Monument for 6 years. During my time in college and work with on the monument I became increasingly interested in sculpting and began my path as a sculptor. Sculptors like John Quincy Adams Ward, Daniel Chester French and salon painters from the 19th century highly influence my work. Their technique inspires me to achieve excellence in finish and nuance in my work. Additionally, their technique and imagery; which is often inspired by the idyllic and ancient, provides a timeless intimacy that I seek in my own work.

My sculpture uses the human figure as an allegory and the personification of abstract concepts.People relate to the figure easily and tapping into this familiarity allows an artist to display a wide array of emotions that broaden the communication between the artist and the viewer. My goal is that the viewer is able to recall their own experiences and develop new connections between those experiences and what I am expressing.”

  • PETRA GERMANY

    The Skirvin Hilton Hotel and Paseo Arts Association are pleased to announce Petra Germany as its ninth artist for their Artist in Residence SPACE program. Petra, an accomplished designer and producer of pop-culture jewelry for gamers, geeks, and cosplayers through Etsy, conventions, and personal commissions, will work in the historic hotel’s studio space from July 1st through January 2022.

    Join them in welcoming Petra Germany as the new Artist in Residence with a reception in her honor on Friday, July 23rd from 4pm-6pm. Enjoy complimentary champagne and hors d'oeuvres (cash bar available with wine, beer and cocktails).

    “We are delighted to have our SPACE, Skirvin Paseo Artists Creativity Exposition, program back open at The Skirvin Hilton! This is a partnership that began in 2012 and continues to be highly sought after and was the first of its kind in the state of Oklahoma,” said Amanda Bleakley, executive director of the Paseo Arts Association.”

    As the SPACE Artist in Residence, Petra invites guests of all ages to an in-depth experience with their favorite characters and offers local residents insights into various creative techniques to generate an interest that may soon find practical application in Oklahoma as our film industry is taking on a new level of interest in the state. She plans on creating a detailed costume and a series of props per month, with materials sourced from local businesses wherever possible. Inspired by different genres like Science Fiction, Fantasy, Historical, or Western, these would correspond with pop culture trends like Marvel (Black Widow), DC (Wonder Woman, The Suicide Squad), Hamilton, Fantastic Beasts, classics such as Star Wars or Frozen. Themed workshops for all skill levels on costuming basics such as pattern making, sewing, leatherworking, or EVA foam builds will offer a new experience with every visit. Guests will be able to view costumes, handle props and enjoy a taking photos with Petra in costumed character. Small accessories and craft kits will be available for sale. All projects are family friendly, non-hazardous, and compliant with COVID-19 safety protocols.

    For over 100 years, the historically significant Skirvin Hilton Hotel has been synonymous with purpose, elegance and innovation. Since its inception, the hotel's identification with and support of the arts has been legendary. All of the major arts organizations, including the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, the Oklahoma Theater Center, The Oklahoma City Ballet, and Allied Arts have been showcased at The Skirvin.

    “We are proud to again partner with the Paseo Arts Association showcasing our city’s diverse art community and providing a platform to challenge, enlighten and creatively engage our guests,” said Skip Harless, General Manager of The Skirvin. “It was immediately apparent that Petra’s energy and fresh approach to engaging others with her unique art was perfect for the restart of this program. We are thrilled to have her in our Space and cannot wait for everyone to experience Petra in action!”

Previous SPACE Artists