Tucked above the bustling streets of Charleston at 2 Queen Street lies a hidden gem: the Robert Lange Studios Artist in Residency Program. For over two decades, this program has not only enriched the walls of the RLS gallery but also brought creative energy to the greater Charleston community.
The program offers a unique opportunity for artists from around the world to live and work within one of the city's most respected galleries. The residency space—a beautifully renovated two-bedroom apartment with the option for a studio—sits above the gallery in a building dating back to 1670. Here, creativity flows freely, and the results are nothing short of transformative.
Gallery co-owner and painter Megan Lange explains, “The residency has become one of the most meaningful things we do at RLS. We love inviting creatives into the space and watching how their ideas evolve while they're here. There's something electric about having artists of different disciplines working side by side."
Over 100 artists—painters, sculptors, musicians, writers, photographers, and more—have participated over the years, many forming deep connections not only with Charleston but also with artists in the community. Megan Lange continues, “We always talk about the cross-pollination that happens when artists are under one roof. They influence each other in these subtle and powerful ways—techniques are shared, ideas get pushed further, and the result is work that feels incredibly fresh and inspired.”
This spirit of collaboration extends beyond the walls of the studio. Resident artists often host open studios, community talks, or pop-up exhibitions, sharing their process and passion with the public. The program mainly supports visiting artists working with local institutions like the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, Redux Contemporary Art Center, and the Gibbes Museum—further knitting the local and global art communities together.
For artists, it's a rare chance to immerse themselves in a creative city while having the space and support to push their boundaries. “We've seen residencies spark new series, lifelong friendships, and even major career shifts,” Megan says. “It’s an incredibly special experience—for them and for us.”
Charleston, known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene, is the perfect backdrop for this kind of creative exchange. With everything from world-class restaurants to inspiring architecture just steps away, artists find endless fuel for their work—and leave behind a bit of their brilliance in return.
To learn more or apply, visit The RLS Residency page.
