USI Residencies 

Do you have a research project related to food, water, soil or eco-fiction? We are looking to support artists, writers, and ecologists engaged in environmental justice, regenerative agriculture, and issues around the climate crisis.

- - -

Since 2019, USI has been grateful to host a residency on Governors Island, NY at the invitation of Mary Mattingly + Swale Lab. The historic house was the site of land-based programming attendant to Mattingly’s food justice initiative, Swale.  Accepted residents explored the intersections of soil, culture, water and food, punctuating their studio time with a weekend public interaction or event. USI’s monthly free soil testing events serve as an excellent resource for all Swale House residents. All residents are invited to submit proposals for USI’s fall Soils Symposium.

Note: We are currently unsure if we will be on Governors Island for the 2026 season. Until we know, we are accepting Residency Proposals, we will update this page & contact all applicants as soon as we have more information. 

Send us a proposal for USI’s Residency, Symposium or both!