About C.O.M.P. Studios

Artist-Centered Focus: Led by a small, community-based arts organization, this program is dedicated to supporting artists.
Collaborative Spirit: C.O.M.P. Studios builds on grassroots efforts like First Friday (Rochester’s Citywide Gallery Night), 2019’s Current Seen, and is adjacent to RoCo’s Upstairs Studios.
Public Engagement: Beyond providing studio space, this initiative increases public visibility for artists’ latest projects and invites audiences to visit and see their artwork.

Location

RoCo Upstairs Gallery: Located at 137 East Avenue (above the main gallery), C.O.M.P. Studios will host two artists per session.
Community Environment: Residents share the second floor with RoCo’s long-term studio artists, creating opportunities for collaboration and networking.
Open Studio Events: Artists will exhibit their work during open hours on one First Friday (6–9pm) and the following two Saturdays (12-5pm).
Accessibility Note: The second floor has no elevator. RoCo Upstairs is also not open to the public during regular gallery hours, except on First Friday and occassional Saturdays.

Who Should Apply
We welcome applications from artists who:

Have a specific project they aim to complete and exhibit in the space.
Need studio space (i.e. do not already have a dedicated workspace).
Plan to use the space actively and frequently during the seven-week session.
Will prepare and present a public open studio event during First Friday (6–9pm) and be in the space and promote open hours the following two Saturdays (12-5pm).

What This Opportunity Provides

Free Studio & Exhibition Space: Available during RoCo’s office hours (Wed–Sun 11am–5pm; Fri 11am–9pm).
Community Support: Access to RoCo Upstairs artists and audiences during open hours.
Basic Facilities: Includes a bathroom and a utility sink.
Basic Furniture: One table and one chair per artist, if requested.