An artist-in-residence is a professional artist who works for a set period of time with a host organization, usually a museum, gallery or university, to create art and engage with the public.
Danville’s program, however, is privately run. It was established by Rick Barker, a local developer who is credited with transforming the 500 block of Craghead Street in the River District.
On this block, the studio space is open to the public on certain days so that the community can meet Hester, check out his art and learn how artists make a living.