Vashon Artist Residency is located on the traditional, unceded land of the sx̌ʷəbabs (Swift Water People), a band of the Puyallup of the Coast Salish tribes. We honor their ongoing stewardship and are committed to amplifying Indigenous voices, histories and experiences.

Vashon Island sits in the midpoint of the southern Salish Sea, between Seattle and Tacoma, Washington. The Island is roughly the length of Manhattan (13.4 miles) and has a population of just over 10,000. There are no bridges connecting Vashon Island to the mainland; access is by ferry. Ferries provide transportation for residents and visitors between Vashon and Seattle to the north, Tacoma to the south and Southworth to the west.

The Island is known for its natural beauty, laid-back culture and its robust arts community. Vashon offers a range of local amenities just a few miles from the residency. These include a public library, a historical museum, grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, coffee shops, a movie theater, arts centers, a post office, bookstore, tool library and hardware stores. The island’s vibrant arts community and many active nonprofit organizations offer community support and resources.

Vashon Artist Residency is situated on just over an acre of waterfront property along the protected shoreline of Quartermaster Harbor. Surrounded by a thriving coastal ecosystem, the harbor’s tidal shifts and abundant wildlife provide inspiration for many artists.

Residency accommodations include private bedrooms and shared living spaces, with views of the water. Outdoor decks and garden areas overlook the harbor, offering quiet places to write, create, reflect or connect with fellow residents.

Just beyond the property, artists can explore a nearby public lagoon, open meadow and scenic rural roads by foot or bicycle.

The town of Vashon is a short drive away. Staff offer weekly trips into town for groceries, errands and farm stand visits. Residents with vehicles are encouraged, when traveling to town or an activity or event, to offer rides to fellow cohort members whenever possible. This peaceful, artist-centered setting is intentionally curated to support creative focus and a restorative connection to nature.