MacDowell is an artist residency program located in the rural environment in Peterborough, New Hampshire. Artists-in-residence need to be comfortable with a degree of solitude and disconnection from the outside world. Studios are comfortably furnished with the artists’ needs in mind. A MacDowell Fellowship consists of exclusive use of a studio, accommodations, and three prepared meals a day for two to six weeks. There are no residency fees. Artists are responsible for materials and travel expenses. MacDowell encourages applications from artists representing the widest possible range of perspectives and demographics.
Since its founding in 1907, MacDowell has imbued its spaces with a deep and abiding respect for artists and their creative work. In the 21st century, this fundamental kindness is sustained by the curiosity, generosity, and goodwill circulating within the resident community. While MacDowell may be thought of as a place apart from the world, the resident population will always be comprised of individuals who are of the world. MacDowell strives to offer ideal working conditions for artists within a joyful and mutually supportive environment. Consistent with that mission, all Fellows are obliged to adopt the community agreement as a condition of accepting a Fellowship. Doing so will help ensure that all Fellows may participate in the enriching exchange that has given rise to countless friendships and collaborations.
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
MacDowell accepts applications from artists working in the following disciplines: architecture, film/video arts, interdisciplinary arts, literature, music composition, theatre, and visual arts. The sole criterion for acceptance is artistic excellence, which MacDowell defines in a pluralistic and inclusive way. MacDowell encourages applications from artists representing the widest possible range of perspectives and demographics, engaging in the broadest spectrum of artistic practice, and investigating an unlimited array of inquiries and concerns. To that end, MacDowell welcomes artists of all ages and in all stages of their artistic practice to apply. Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree-seeking program during the residency season for which they are applying. Doctoral candidates who have completed all coursework may apply.
There are no residency fees. Accepted artists are responsible for materials and travel expenses. Stipends and travel reimbursement grants are available to accepted artists based on demonstrated financial need. Please see Grant/Scholarship/Other Funding Support Details for more information.
There is no cost for a MacDowell Fellowship, but to open the residency to the broadest possible community of artists, MacDowell offers financial assistance programs to those who have been awarded a Fellowship. These programs are intended to help with or cover the costs of traveling to and from MacDowell, as well as expenses that artists expect to incur while in residence, including rent, lost income, and childcare.
Artists may apply for stipends and travel grants only if they are awarded a MacDowell Fellowship; and funding is awarded based on demonstrated financial need. Applications for financial 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. Artists of all disciplines are eligible to apply.