Preparing for Your International Residency: What to Pack, What to Expect, and How to Set Yourself Up for a Fulfilling Experience
Being selected as a resident artist brings a mix of excitement and nervousness. While you're thrilled about the opportunities ahead, there are challenges in adapting to a new place, culture, and creative community. To make the most of this transformative experience, preparation is key. In this article, we’ll guide you through the practical aspects of your residency, from what to pack and managing your emotional well-being to other essential tips.
photo taken by SUP_T, NCUE student art studio
What to Pack: Essentials for Personal and Artistic Needs
Packing for your international residency can feel overwhelming, but careful planning will ensure you have everything needed to work comfortably and effectively. Here's a breakdown of what to bring for a smooth experience.
For Your Artistic Practice:
Art Supplies: Whether you're a painter, sculptor, photographer, or digital artist, make sure to pack the necessary tools for your creative practice. Bring any specific materials that may be difficult to find or purchase overseas, such as particular brushes, paints, fabrics, or digital devices. If your practice relies on technology, like cameras or video equipment, ensure you have the right gear and check the power voltage and socket types for the country you're visiting. Please also reach out to the SUP team beforehand to find out what tools or equipment are already available, so you can pack only what’s essential and avoid overpacking. You may also be able to purchase certain materials locally, so there’s no need to worry about suitcase weight. Additionally, make sure the items you're bringing comply with airline security policies and local laws.
Digital Tools: Laptops, hard drives, and other digital devices are vital for documentation, research, and creation. It’s wise to bring backup storage (external hard drives or cloud storage). Don’t forget the correct adapters for your devices: India uses Type C, D, and M plugs with 230V AC, whil Taiwan uses Type A and B plugs with 110V AC. Be sure to check the voltage compatibility of your devices to avoid any issues
Portfolios and Documentation: Please digitise your work that you may want to include in workshops, talks, or presentations. Bring either a digital or physical portfolio (if it's easy to store and won’t be at risk of damage during travel) to share with fellow artists and mentors. Well-documented examples of your previous work, along with an outline of your artistic goals, will be valuable for networking and collaboration.
For Personal Needs:
Clothing for India’s Climate: India’s climate is highly diverse, with tropical regions experiencing hot and humid weather, especially from March to June. Lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are essential for warmer areas. If you’re visiting during the winter months (November to February), pack layers, as temperatures can vary from cool in the mornings and evenings to warmer during the day. In northern regions, temperatures can drop to 5°C (41°F), so be sure to pack a jacket or sweater for colder areas. Always check the local temperature before traveling, and consider reaching out to the SUP team to confirm the appropriate clothing for the specific regions you'll be visiting.
Clothing for Taiwan's Climate: Taiwan’s tropical climate means hot, humid weather, particularly from May to October. Lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are ideal. If you're visiting in winter (December to February), pack a jacket for cooler temperatures. Always check the local temperature before traveling, and feel free to ask the SUP team to confirm the best types of clothing to pack.
Clothing Etiquette: As you’ll be working within the university environment, it's expected culturally to wear semi-formal or smart casual attire. Please bring a few pieces of clothing suitable for important public events or professional presentations.
Personal Care Items: While most personal care items are available in both India and Taiwan, bring any specialty products (e.g., medications, specific toiletries, or skincare) that may not be familiar. If you're on prescription medication, bring enough for the duration of your stay, along with a doctor's note for refills.
Health and Safety: Both India and Taiwan are generally safe destinations, but it’s always wise to carry basic health supplies such as a first-aid kit, regular medications, and hand sanitiser. Travel insurance that covers health-related issues and emergencies is strongly recommended. If you have food allergies, please be mindful that both India and Taiwan may not have the same level of caution as the UK when it comes to food allergens. Many market vendors do not provide allergy labels, but restaurants and supermarkets typically offer clear information about ingredients and allergens.
Travel Essentials: Apart from your passport, tickets, and local currency, be sure to pack a reliable travel bag for daily essentials, headphones for downtime, and a power bank to keep your devices charged on the go. Double-check that your credit and bank cards will work abroad, and notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with transactions. It's also essential to carry a copy of emergency contact details, along with the contact information for your residency programme. For added security and convenience, we recommend digitising all important documents and saving them online, so you can access them easily whenever needed.
photo taken by SUP_G 2019 artist Grace Celder
Setting Expectations: Adjusting to Life Away from Home
Being away from home for an extended period can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, even with the excitement of new experiences ahead. Preparing for the emotional aspects of your residency will help you navigate this journey more smoothly. The SUP team, with our extensive experience as creative professionals living and working abroad, is here to share firsthand insights on how to minimize worries and make the most of your time in a new environment and culture.
Adjusting to a New Culture:
At SUP, our team has strong ties to both India and Taiwan, with firsthand experience living and working in these regions. We’re here to guide you through cultural adjustments, sharing insights that go beyond travel blogs. From authentic food experiences to understanding local social norms, we can help you navigate your new environment and make the most of your time abroad.
India’s vibrant mix of ancient traditions, regional diversity, and modern influences offers an exciting yet sometimes overwhelming cultural landscape. You may encounter language barriers, unfamiliar social norms, and new ways of interacting. Embrace these differences as opportunities for personal growth. Learning a few basic phrases in Hindi or the local language of the region you’re visiting can help foster meaningful connections. Explore the rich food culture, participate in local festivals and events, and approach the experience with an open mind as you immerse yourself in India’s dynamic cultural fabric.
Taiwan’s unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and modern influences offers an exciting yet sometimes overwhelming cultural landscape. You may face language barriers, unfamiliar social norms, and new ways of interacting. Embrace these differences as opportunities for growth. Try learning a few basic Mandarin or Taiwanese phrases, which can help foster positive connections. Dive into the local food scene, attend cultural events, and keep an open mind as you discover this dynamic culture.
Homesickness and Loneliness:
It’s natural to feel homesick or isolated, especially early on. The initial excitement may be followed by moments of longing for familiar surroundings. Stay connected with family and friends through video calls, but also focus on building a support network locally. Reach out to fellow artists and the SUP team—these are the people who can offer both emotional and creative support. We understand how it feels to be away from home, and the SUP team is here for you throughout your residency, offering guidance and reassurance whenever you need it.
Jet Lag and Time Zone Adjustment:
Adjusting to India’s GMT+5:30 time zone can take a few days, especially since it’s a 4.5-hour difference ahead of the UK. It’s normal to feel tired or disoriented upon arrival, so don’t rush into work right away. We highly recommend that you take the time to rest and orient yourself during this period. Avoid over-planning your schedule in the first few days. A fully rested body will help you better adjust to the massive time difference, ensuring you stay healthy and energized for the creative journey ahead.
Similarly, when adjusting to Taiwan’s GMT+8 time zone, the time difference is 7 hours ahead of the UK. Just like with India, take it slow and allow your body to acclimatize. A few days of rest and minimal pressure will help you make the most of your residency without burning out too early.
Managing Expectations for Your Work:
Your time in India or Taiwan is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in your art, but it’s important to avoid putting pressure on yourself with unrealistic expectations. Allow space for exploration, letting inspiration guide your creative process. As our SUP alumni often share, the key is to stay open and let your creativity flow naturally. Don’t stress about creating for the sake of producing something. Instead, focus on being present in the moment and embracing the experiences the residency offers. This approach is not only healthier but also more effective in nurturing your work and growth as an artist.
Creative Exploration: Residencies offer a valuable opportunity to step outside your usual creative boundaries. While having a clear project or goal is helpful, don’t hesitate to explore new directions and let unexpected ideas guide your practice. If you ever find yourself stuck or in need of a sounding board, the SUP team is here to support you! As trained professionals with a unique blend of artistic expertise and supportive roles, we’re here to help you navigate your residency journey and build a fulfilling, enriching experience abroad.
Pacing Yourself: Remember, a residency is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself—take time to rest, reflect, and recharge. Don’t feel pressured to produce a finished work right away; your creative journey is just as valuable as the final outcome. As many of our SUP alumni have shared, it’s often only when they return to the UK that they truly recognize how much they’ve accomplished during their time abroad—and wish they had stressed less during the residency itself.
Photo taken by SUP_T at NCUE
How to Make the Most of Your First Weeks: Practical Tips for a productive start
How to Make the Most of Your First Weeks: Practical Tips for a Productive Start
The first few weeks of your residency will set the tone for the rest of your time. The SUP team will be there to assist you with anything you need, especially helping you get familiar with the community and surroundings. Here are a few practical tips to help you get started on the right foot:
1. Build Connections Early
Networking: Meeting like-minded local artists, hosting university staff members, students, is one of the highlights of a residency. Introduce yourself to others, engage in casual conversations, and explore collaboration opportunities. These connections can provide both creative insight and emotional support throughout your stay.
Local Community Engagement: Don’t hesitate to dive into the local art scene. Attend galleries, meet local artists, and network with curators and collectors. The vibrant art community in India and Taiwan offers a wealth of inspiration and potential collaborations.
2. Set Short-Term and Long-Term Goals
While having a long-term vision is essential, setting smaller, achievable goals for the first few weeks will help you build momentum. Consider:
Getting familiar with your workspace and surroundings.
Exploring the local culture for inspiration.
Experimenting with new techniques or approaches.
Setting up a system to document your progress.
Learn a few phrases in Hindi or Mandarin.
3. Stay Organized, but Be Flexible
A residency offers structure, but flexibility is just as important. Your creative process might evolve in unexpected ways, and that’s okay. Keep track of your progress through a journal or digital platform, but allow space for spontaneity and new ideas to flourish. There will be a weekly meeting with the SUP team throughout your residency to help keep you accountable and provide additional support if you need it..
4. Embrace the Local Environment
India and Taiwan both offer diverse landscapes—from bustling cities to tranquil beaches and majestic mountains—that are rich sources of inspiration. Take time to explore, whether by visiting local markets, hiking through scenic locations, or simply relaxing in nature. Making connections with local people is one of the best ways to enhance your experience and gain authentic insights into the culture. These experiences will not only recharge your energy but also offer fresh perspectives for your work.
SUP_G 2018 artists & students
Summary: Making the Most of Your International Residency
Embarking on an international residency is a transformative experience, offering both creative growth and cultural immersion. While the excitement of being selected can feel overwhelming at first, careful preparation is key to navigating the emotional and logistical challenges ahead. From packing the essentials for your artistic practice and personal needs, to adjusting to a new cultural environment, your residency is an opportunity to explore, experiment, and connect. Setting realistic goals, staying organized yet flexible, and embracing the local environment will help you make the most of your time abroad. The SUP team, with our firsthand experience, is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a fulfilling and successful residency experience. With the right mindset and resources, you’ll be able to focus on your work, engage with local communities, and return home with a deeper sense of personal and artistic growth.