Rural Performance Production Lab
(RPPL)

The Rural Performance / Production Lab (RPPL) is a creative production process which supports the development of new art rooted in rural living, history, places, and bodies. Pronounced “ripple”, the intent is for artist voices to act as catalysts for broad community change. Through four categories, RPPL artists receive direct funding or a configuration of an on-site residency, coaching and support from a dedicated team of advisors over an 18-month period in addition to the direct funding. Awards range from $2500 – $10,000.

“The RPPL residency program is unique in its ability to provide artists with a home to lean into their creativity, dream up the many possibilities their creativity can support their purpose, build the work that is most important and relevant to them, and still find space to rest and restore,” said Carlton Turner, Co-founder and co-director of Sipp Culture. “There are very few places like this designed for rural artists in the South.”

Sipp Culture is able to provide rehearsal space, housing, planning support and can participate as a partner and consultant in the realization of bringing new Southern rural stories to the field. We offer each artist a residency, which is tailor-made to fit their developmental needs.

The RPPL residency program is best positioned to support artists transitioning from one place in their career trajectory into another self-defined place. This “transitional” label is a more apt fit than emerging or established, veteran artists, or the commissioning of new work. We are in a time that calls for change, both structural and intentional. Artists are built to adapt. Our residency program is designed to aid in that transition.

This opportunity is for artists living in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

RPPL provides a limited number of full residencies, which provide three consecutive weeks of housing and retreat space for the artist to dream and manifest their work. Additionally, some artists that apply may be offered the opportunity to come for a week. Each RPPL residency covers travel and food costs, as well as fresh seasonal produce from the Sipp Culture Community Farm.