BLURUM STUDIOS
ARTIST RESIDENCIES
An opportunity for recording and urban artists to create their best work in a tropical paradise.
Recording Artist Residencies
Calling all emcees, vocalists, and musicians looking to gain inspiration under African skies and broaden their musical influences.
Under the mentorship of veteran underground emcee BluRum13, resident artists will enjoy an inspiring environment in which to create and compose, write and record, collaborate and perform their work as well as collaborate with African artists.
In addition to recording projects, BluRum Studios is proud to facilitate collaborations between international and local artists. Zanzibar has a rich musical history with deep roots in the various diasporas who once traded and lived on the island. Arabic, East Asian, and African instruments, rhythms and melodies merge to create the music unique to this archipelago. We welcome all artists intent on exploring and contributing to this exciting musical tapestry via artistic exchanges, creative collaborations, and live music performances within the community.
BluRum Studios was founded to provide a space where creativity is taken seriously and pushed to new heights. Our approach is to take you from the idea in your head to the stage, or final master. You bring your talent and dedication, we contribute our skills and musicians. We are a community studio with a growing local network of producers and artists (Zanzibar & mainland) ready to collaborate and be part of your artistic journey.
Included in all Recording Artist Residencies is room & board, airport transport, daily studio time, and live performance opportunities.
Services Available to Resident Artists
- On-site production
- Extensive library of tracks to choose from
- Music release planning
- Record exec consultation
- Video shoot planning & direction
- Music lessons (keyboard, guitar, music theory, production)
- Introductions to native musicians & music organizations
- Opportunities & spaces in which to collaborate
- Opportunities to perform live
Resident Recording Artist: Meryem Saci
“My Zanzibar experience was not short of highlights but the best part was landing at BluRum Studios and having the chance to experience waking up to making music everyday in the most relaxing scenery. The hosts are very welcoming and accommodating. We could practice, jam and record in one place. I highly recommend it for anyone needing to escape winter or big city noise for some creative inspiration.”
Urban Artist Residencies
Calling all graffiti writers and urban artists interested in expanding their concrete portfolios, collaborating with their African counterparts, and beautifying neighbourhoods in need.
The BluRum Studios Residency will connect you with the youth in communities eager to have their stories told through urban art. There will be opportunities to both mentor budding Zanzibari artists, as well as collaborate with major mainland artists, while exploring the street art scene on the mainland in Dar Es Salaam.
Philosophy
Our Urban Artist Residencies extend to graffiti writers as well as 3D and installation artists. Our philosophy is rooted in the theory of “Neo-Situationism” according to acclaimed sociocultural explorer and urban art curator, Arcadi Poch, founder of Vogelkop Art, Barcelona. This approach recognizes urban art as being the voice of the people – the unheard, those who live among the walls where urban art is found. As such, we collaborate with local communities to ensure that the art created speaks to them, reflects them, and ultimately improves the lives of those who will live with it.
Included in all Urban Artist residencies is room & board, airport transportation, 3-day trip to Dar Es Salaam, sourcing of required art materials (tbd in advance), and location scouting.
Resident Urban Artist: Monk.e
Create & Live at BluRum Studios Art Garden
Stay on-site in the Studio’s Art Garden in a private, ensuite room with rain shower, covered porch and high speed wifi. Breakfast, daily fresh fruit and juices are included in your stay. A spacious, outdoor kitchen with bar is at your disposal, as is our local chef. Order traditional Zanzibari meals at minimal cost, or select from a number of local and foreign restaurants within walking distance of the studio grounds. Our covered stage doubles as an exercise space, with mini skate ramps, free weights and yoga mats at your disposal. The beach and two natural caves are within easy walking distance from the studio gate.
Artist Residency Form
Please tell us a bit about yourself, your work, where you’re from, and what you would like to create while in residence at BluRum Studios, Zanzibar. Space is limited, residencies will be accepted based on vision, dedication and community impact.