Are you working on an application and need feedback on your materials?
Facilitator : S. Emsaki
Emsaki is an interdisciplinary artist and educator based in Brooklyn, NY. They hold an MFA from Yale University and a BA from the University of California, Berkeley, and are a recent alum of the Whitney Museum Independent Study Program.
Emsaki is currently a Studio Program Artist in Residence at Smack Mellon and the 2024–25 recipient of the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation Residency at the International Studio & Curatorial Program in Brooklyn, NY. They have attended residencies and fellowships at Blazing Star Press, Williams College, MA; Yaddo, Saratoga Springs, NY; Fine Arts Work Center, Provincetown, MA; Atlantic Center for the Arts, New Smyrna Beach, FL; The Institute of Contemporary Arts & Paul Mellon Center, London, UK, among others.
"In addition to attending eleven residencies and fellowships, I have worked as an applications and jury manager and reviewed over 1,500 applications. In the workshop, I share everything I've learned about making a solid application that stands out."
" This workshop grew from years of providing feedback to friends and peers on their applications. "
One last spot available for the February session: Feb 14, 21, & 28 · 9:00 AM EST)
Takeaways:
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Revise and finalize an application of your choice
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Receive two rounds of personalized, in-depth feedback on your materials
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Learn through observing live feedback on other participants’ applications
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Become familiar with the jury process, implied rules, language, and strategies that can strengthen an application
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Closely review and discuss strong, successful applications to understand what works—and why
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Review common FAQs and receive clear answers to your own questions
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Learn practical tools for planning, budgeting, time management, and identifying opportunities
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Receive guidance on file preparation, organization, and systems for tracking progress
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Complete weekly assignments designed to support momentum and accountability
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Build an intimate cohort through reciprocal support, trust, and ongoing connection beyond the workshop
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Develop a resilient, sustainable approach to applying—one that supports persistence, clarity, and navigating rejection
Services
Application Workshop
Three 90-minute virtual sessions, spread over the course of three weeks, capped at three participants.
Offered at a sliding scale of $350–$450
The first session covers general information, dos and don’ts, philosophy, and resources, followed by a close reading of an accepted and a finalist application. During the second session, participants receive feedback on the first draft of their application materials and observe feedback on other participants’ drafts. A second round of feedback is provided during the final session, along with an extended Q&A and discussion of references, interviews, and next steps.
* Sessions are held virtually and scheduled on evenings and/or weekends to accommodate participants’ schedules. The workshop is offered only twice per month, and registration closes two weeks prior to the start of each session. *
One-on-One Sessions
One-on-one sessions are tailored to the specific needs and goals of each participant and can be used in whatever way is most useful. Sessions may include, but are not limited to, application feedback, project critique, portfolio review, proposal development, or topics covered in the Artist Application Workshop.
These sessions are well-suited for artists who are unable to commit to the full workshop, are seeking focused critique on a project or body of work, want in-depth, individualized feedback and guidance, or are preparing applications for MFA programs.
*Sessions are available virtually or in person in the NYC area, depending on availability and preference. Rates are determined by session format (hourly or package) and the participant’s scope and needs.*
Academic/Extended/Large Group Workshop
These workshops are designed for MFA programs, universities, and other academic or organizational settings. The length, format, and rates of the workshop can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of the students and the hosting organization. Sessions can focus on topics covered in the Artist Application Workshop, portfolio development, artist statements, project descriptions, project critique, or other tailored material, and can be offered virtually or in person in the NYC area.
Testimonials
"I took Emsakis’s Rejection Is Hot course, and it was incredibly helpful. It strengthened my
application writing and shifted how I think about and approach residency applications. It also
gave me the chance to workshop a specific application with clear, structured feedback from
other artists."
-Anabelle DeClement
"Emsaki's workshop was so helpful!! They gave great, specific feedback on my application and were so thoughtful about ways to improve it. Highly recommend for anyone who wants some extra eyes on their applications! "
-Anya Pertel
January Session #2 Cohort
January Session #2 Cohort
Some Past Participants
Kiko Thomas
Lise Ross
Minoo Emadi