Artist in Residence


Every year, Solstice hires local artists to make their magic and to inspire others to create. This energy and creativity is what Solstice is all about. We have had some extremely challenging years to navigate as an organization, a community and globally. But, we as a community based organization continue our commitment to making the magic happen.
UPDATE: Mask Makers, Costumers, Artist in Residence, Workshop Assistant & Tech positions will be open for interviews. Watch this space for more information!
If you are interested in what our Artists in Residence will be creating, check back here in May. We will be providing detailed information on the projects as well as contact information should the artist be in need of volunteers. This is another fun way you can get involved in this years festivities
If you are a Junior Artist (ages 13-20), we are accepting applications for our Junior Artist mentorship program. This program began in 2002 to honor the first Solstice Junior Artist, Jethro Davis. This year the program will honor the Solstice founder and artist Michael Gonzales. Claudia Bratton, a long time Solstice Artist and former Executive Director is leading the Junior Artist Program.
A limited number of young artists will be selected to work directly with the Solstice Artists in Residence in the creation of ensembles, floats, and costumes for the 2023 Solstice Parade on June 24th. This hands-on program takes place at the Workshop at 631 Garden Street, during after school and weekends hours. Many of the former recipients have gone on to successful careers in the arts.
Honorariums are given to the students, based upon level of participation and funding, from $50 to $500. Interested young artists are encouraged to submit a letter about themselves and their desire to participate in the program by May 7, 2023. If applicants have a preference, for example, working costume department or learning elemental building skills, they are asked to include that in their application.
Junior Artist Application Letters should be submitted by email to juniorartists@solsticeparade.com by May 7, 2023.
VOLUNTEERS, let us know what you would like to create. Click here, for the application. A Solstice Staff member will contact you once your application has been reviewed.
This year’s parade will be on June 24th on Santa Barbara Street from Ortega to Alameda Park at Sola. The theme is “ROOTS”. Junior artists are also asked to help with the cleanup process in the week following the parade.
Solstice Workshop Hours are: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 4 pm – 8 pm and weekends from noon to 6:00 pm. Students will need their own transportation to and from the workshop.
If you are interested in sponsoring an artist, with a tax deductible contribution, click here. Those interested in specifically supporting the Junior Artist mentorship program with a tax deductible contribution may contact Solstice at: solstice@solsticeparade.com.