The Operating Rules and Procedures (ORP) states that artists (tenants) must maintain required open hours of their studio or gallery (section 19. Hours & section 22. Guidelines for Galleries). The ORP also provides for two exemption options to the hour requirements, Hardships and Leave of Absences.
Hardships: Resident Artists and galleries may make an appeal for a hardship. As stated in section 20. Lease Guidelines, part b. vii.:
In case of hardship or unusual circumstances, appeal may be made to the Landlord.
Leave of Absences: Resident Artists may request a leave of absence. As stated in section 20. Lease Guidelines, part c.:
Leave of Absence for One Year.
i. When an artist wishes to take a leave of absence for up to one year for study or other valid reason, he/she must submit a written request to the Landlord.
ii. During the term of the lease, only one leave of absence is permitted.
iii. The tenant remains responsible for the studio rent as specified in the lease.
iv. The artist may sublease the studio.
v. Co-tenants may decline to sublease but must then pay the full rent.
vi. If there is no sublease, the artist on leave is not counted when calculating the minimum number of hours the studio must be open.
Time Away: This form also serves as a way to notify the Landlord if a Resident Artist plans to be away from their studio for a period of time. If less than 3 weeks, an artist is not required to notify the Landlord, but it is good practice.
Of note, section 19. Hours states “f. Regardless of how many hours have been worked ahead of time or will be made up for later, no studio may be closed for more than three consecutive weeks at a time.”
This form is to communicate your request in writing to the Landlord for one of these exemptions.