This question comes up often—from artists inside and outside the LGBTQIA+ community. It reflects the pressure so many of us feel to define ourselves in ways that conform to dominant narratives, aesthetics, or expectations.

At The Bureau of Queer Art, we believe: You don’t need to prove your Queerness to belong here.

Queer isn’t one look, one legacy, or one way of being. It’s not about how loud your expression is, or whether your work fits a mold. For some, Queerness is visible and defiant. For others, it’s quiet, reflective, or still evolving. And for our allied artists, it’s a conscious choice to stand beside us—to advocate, support, and create a more just art world.

We created TBQA as a refuge—a place where artists across the gender and sexuality spectrum, at every career stage, can grow, be seen, and be supported. We resist the gatekeeping of galleries and algorithms. We welcome the full range of Queer and allied voices. If being part of this community opens doors for you—artistically, emotionally, or professionally—that’s more than enough.

Here, you don’t need to pass a test to be seen. You just need to show up as yourself.

Because visibility shouldn’t be conditional. And community shouldn’t be exclusive.

Global Participation: Open to artists of all nationalities and from any geographical location. An internet connection and a passion for art are the key requirements.

Diverse Artistic Disciplines: Welcoming artists from a wide range of disciplines including visual arts, performance, writing, and filmmaking. Our program values the diversity and richness that various art forms bring to our community.

Emerging and Established Artists: Both emerging and established artists are encouraged to apply. We look for individuals who show a strong commitment to their artistic practice.

Studio Practice Dedication:
Ideal for artists who are dedicated to maintaining a studio practice, even amidst the time constraints of a full and busy life. Our program recognizes the challenges of balancing artistic pursuits with other responsibilities and aims to support artists in this endeavor

Crucially
We welcome artists who show great promise for active participation within queer and artistic circles, particularly those who are eager to both contribute to and grow from the collaborative dynamics of our community.

Filling Out the Application Form: Begin your artistic journey with us by thoughtfully completing the application form.

Applicants submit proposals for the projects they are passionate about pursuing during their tenure. They convene weekly with their mentors to review advancements and refine their approaches.

Submission of Your CV and Portfolio: We have created a google form that allows you to submit the required materials.

Next Steps
We will review your application and contact you within 30 days of your completed application date.

Artists applying for residency meet weekly over a set period to collaboratively address critical issues that influence their creative and professional growth, fostering an interdisciplinary dialogue.

Our artist residency program, passionately dedicated to queer and queer-allied artists, is eagerly preparing for a momentous occasion: our participation in the 6th Annual Summer Pride show. This year's residency is especially designed to culminate in an expressive and impactful exhibition, celebrating the themes and essence of Pride. We warmly invite artists who identify as queer or are allies of the queer community to join us in this creative endeavor.

Residency Cost: $300 USD + 16.6% VAT

Our residency operates on an open-ended enrollment basis, allowing artists to join when the timing aligns with their studio practice.

Each residency spans 10 consecutive weeks (excluding weeks where the meeting falls on a U.S. bank holiday).

While we aim to offer these valuable opportunities free of charge, the reality of sustaining such a program makes that goal challenging. However, our program remains significantly more affordable than traditional residencies, while providing greater engagement, more diverse outcomes, and broader visibility.

Participants become part of a vibrant, active studio arts community with access to exhibitions (both solo and group), features in publications and podcasts, and opportunities across digital platforms and physical venues in Mexico City and other partner locations.

Our mission is to empower artists—amplifying their voices and offering dynamic exposure in a supportive and inclusive environment.

At The Bureau of Queer Art, we believe artists thrive when their work is seen, their voices are heard, and their contributions are valued. Our residency program is built to support the full scope of your practice—connecting you with visibility, curatorial support, and a global community of queer and allied artists.

These benefits are offered to reduce financial barriers, amplify your reach, and reinforce your place in the broader cultural conversation.

Exhibition Opportunities on Artsy.net

Group Exhibition Inclusion
Residency artists are automatically included in our Artsy group exhibition with no additional cost—ensuring international visibility and direct access to collectors and curators.

Solo Exhibition Opportunities
Residents may be selected for a free 60-day solo show on Artsy.net, highlighting their work in a dedicated space designed to grow visibility and support sales.

Publication in The Bureau of Queer Art Magazine

Group Feature
All residency artists featured in the Artsy group exhibition will also receive a 2-page artist profile in our print and digital publication—offered at no cost.

Feature-Length Interview + Podcast
Residents may also be invited for an expanded 2–6 page feature, which includes an in-depth interview and potential inclusion in our podcast. This is provided free of charge to residency artists.

Magazine Copies
Residents can purchase one print copy of the magazine at cost ($20–$35 USD) and additional copies at retail.

Commission Structure for Sales

We aim for transparency and fairness in sales. Our residency commission rates reflect our commitment to investing in artists first:

Residency Artists

• 19% to Artsy

• 21% to The Bureau of Queer Art

• 60% to the Artist

Note: Non-residency artists receive a smaller percentage based on fee structure and level of involvement.

Patreon Reimbursement Benefit

Residency artists who contribute at the $5/month Patreon level will see this investment returned in the form of reduced exhibition fees. Supporting our Patreon helps sustain our platform—and we believe in giving that value right back.

Curatorial Mentorship & Professional Guidance

Residents receive personalized feedback and guidance from curators and arts professionals. Support includes:

• Refining artist statements, bios, and CVs

• Exhibition planning and project development

• Ongoing mentorship to strengthen your conceptual and studio practice

Artist Community & Global Network

Join a cohort of artists across disciplines, geographies, and identities. Our residency fosters:

• Weekly studio check-ins

• Peer-to-peer feedback

• Cross-generational exchange

• Lasting relationships rooted in shared values

Podcast Feature Opportunity

Residency artists may be selected for an episode on The Bureau of Queer Art Podcast, offering a platform to speak directly about your work, process, and practice with a growing international audience.

We don’t just believe in your art—we invest in your visibility, your growth, and your right to belong.
Apply to join a community where who you are is enough, and where your art is given the platform it deserves.