Frequently Asked Questions

Read our Handbook for a comprehensive overview of the program. Here are some of the more common inquiries:

Who can come?
Elsewhere is open to visual artists, musicians, writers, mixed media artists, and performing artists as well as scientists, activists, teachers, students, or any kind of creative thinker interested in exploring and expanding their work.

What should I bring?
Clothing, toiletries and any supplies you'll need create your magic. It can be hot in the summer and cold in the winter. We supply bedding, pillows, towels, but feel free to bring your favorite items for maximum coziness.

Is food provided?
Food is not provided. Artists are responsible for making their meals. We have communal basic cooking supplies such as spices, oils, etc. On that note, some artists like to rotate family dinner responsibilities on a weekly basis. It’s up to the artists to arrange, and is only an option not a requirement, that but is a fun thing to do!

Can I buy art supplies there?
Most artists bring or ship art supplies that they will need during their stay. There are hardware stores in town, craft stores in Delta, and art stores in Grand Junction. We have random leftover supplies from artists, but it is better to be prepared ahead of time.

Is there internet?
We have high-speed fiber internet with a wireless router for the building.

Do cell phones work?
Reception is variable. Providers change their coverage constantly, and as of 2023 T-Mobile and its subsidiaries have 4G/5G coverage. Verizon and AT&T have mostly abandoned the area. If you head up into the West Elk mountains it’s almost guaranteed you will lose service.

Can I ship things ahead of time?
Yes! UPS and FedEx will deliver to the building as such: Elsewhere Studios; 107 3rd St; Paonia, CO 81428

USPS does not deliver to the building, the address must be: Elsewhere Studios; P.O. Box 926; Paonia, CO 81428 

Do you supply bedding and towels?
Yes. But having your favorite pillow or blanket might help you settle in even quicker!

Where do I do laundry?
At Elsewhere! There is a washer and dryer in the building.

How do I get to Elsewhere?
You have options, if you drive you can come from wherever! Elsewhere offers pickups for a fee from Montrose, Grand Junction, and Glenwood Springs. Amtrak stops in Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction. Greyhound stops in Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction. You can fly into Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) or Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ). They are each about 1.5 hours from Paonia. If you fly into Denver (DEN) you will need to take Bus (Greyhound) or Train (Amtrak) to Glenwood Springs. Denver is a 4.5 hour drive to Paonia.

How is public transportation? Uber, etc.?
Very limited, and probably non-existent. Don’t count on it!

How do I get around?
Daily needs like grocery stores, post office, library, coffee, bakery, etc., are all within a quarter mile of Elsewhere. We have a fleet of commuter bicycles available for resident use as well. Carpools often get arranged for bigger adventures, and you’re welcome to bring your own transportation (bike, etc.).

Can I bring my pets? What about service animals?
We’re sorry to say that non-service dogs, cats, and other large critters are almost always not allowed. On rare occasion, small animals have been permitted as residents (hedgehog, house-trained rabbit). An extra fee for cleaning may apply. Tomatoes is a very social/pushy/territorial cat and will be in the mix as well. You must inquire and receive permission from Elsewhere before bringing any kind of animal with you to the residency, NO EXCEPTIONS. Service animals must be under control at all times and must be housebroken; Elsewhere reserves the right to require the service animal be taken off the premises if these conditions are not met.

Shared residencies?
Elsewhere had two spaces that are large enough for two artists – the Suite and the Basement Apartment. If you wish to apply for a collaborative project, each artist will need to submit an application and explain how the shared residency will work for them. Additional fees will apply. In order to keep the space focused on creative study, we only accept folks in-residence who have been through the application process – partners and other guests are not allowed to be in-residence otherwise. 

Can I have visitors?
It’s fine to have a visitor for a few days but please honor the other residents' time and space to be focused and create. Please share your visitor plans in advance and if possible arrange for their stay in one of Paonia's lodging accommodations, there’s a huge variety of places to stay.

Are there family residencies?
Once a year we are able to host family residencies thanks to Sustainable Arts Foundation. Check out the Parent Residency page for more info. Elsewhere is looking into expanding it’s family residency opportunities, please stay tuned or inquire.

What’s the climate like?
Paonia and the North Fork Valley have a high desert climate. Winters are milder than the interior Rockies but can be severe at times. Summers can be hot, with temperatures often reaching 90°F and sometimes breaking 100. Evenings bring relief from the daytime heat and are very pleasant. 

Is it high altitude?
At 5,682 ft. elevation, the atmosphere is thinner than at sea level. Consequently, the sun is stronger and there is less oxygen available compared to lower elevations. Though this is a moderate level of elevation (some CO towns are above 10,000 ft!), some residents traveling from low elevations experience altitude sickness in Paonia at the beginning of their stay. To avoid this, our advice is to drink plenty of water and eat well (altitude can suppress appetite), and strictly avoid alcohol and strenuous activity. Get plenty of rest for a few days before and after your arrival. If you worry the altitude could cause problems for you, please consult a physician.