Call for applications: MacDowell Colony artist residency in the US

The residency programme is intended for artists in the fields of music composition, visual arts, theatre, architecture, film/video arts, interdisciplinary arts and literature. The programme aims to provide time, space and an inspiring environment to artists of exceptional talent.

Application process

Before starting the application process, artists are encouraged to read here. All applicants apply through the online application process and are not required to mail in hard copies of the application forms.

All applicants, including artists who have had previous residencies at MacDowell, must submit a complete application that includes recent work samples.

Interested artists can apply here and the deadline for applications is 15 January.

Eligibility

• MacDowell accepts applications from artists working in the following disciplines: music composition, visual arts, theatre, architecture, film/video arts, interdisciplinary arts and literature.
• The sole criterion for acceptance is artistic excellence, which the Colony defines in a pluralistic and inclusive way.
• MacDowell encourages applications from artists representing the widest possible range of perspectives and demographics, and welcomes artists engaging in the broadest spectrum of artistic practice and investigating an unlimited array of inquiries and concerns.
• Applicants who are enrolled in undergraduate or graduate degree programmes as of the date of application are ineligible for a residency and therefore cannot apply. Doctoral candidates who have finished all coursework may apply.

Work samples

• Work samples supporting the proposed project and completed within the past four years are requested.
• All work samples are uploaded and submitted through the online application. Applicants unable to submit new work for the panel to review should include a note of explanation.
• Those applicants whose proposed projects does not fall clearly within an artistic discipline should contact the admissions office to discuss which discipline would best fit the proposed work. For detailed work sample requirements for each artistic discipline, click here.

Collaborations

• Artists collaborating on a project must submit individual application forms and appropriate work samples, along with a joint description of the work they intend to do at the MacDowell.
• Work space needs should be clearly specified (i.e. whether or not separate studios are required), and an example of a previous collaborative work (either completed or in progress) may also be submitted. Admission status is determined by averaging the individual application scores of all collaborators.

“We believe that all talented artists should have the opportunity a MacDowell residency provides, and there is no cost for a MacDowell Fellowship,” MacDowell Colony said. “Additionally, in order to open the residency experience to the broadest possible community of artists, MacDowell offers financial assistance programmes to those who have been awarded a fellowship. These financial assistance programmes are intended to help with or cover the costs of traveling to and from MacDowell, as well as expenses which artists expect to incur while in residence, including rent and lost income.

“Artists may apply for financial aid stipends and travel grants only if they are awarded a MacDowell Fellowship, and demonstrate financial need. Applications for assistance, which are made available as part of the confirmation of acceptance to MacDowell, are kept confidential. Financial assistance funds are disbursed during or shortly after a residency.”

Read here for further application guidelines.

If you have questions about applying to MacDowell, email the admissions office at: admissions@macdowellcolony.org.

View original call here.