The MacDowell Fellowship provides time, space, and an inspiring residential environment to artists working in seven disciplines: architecture, film/video arts, interdisciplinary arts, literature, music composition, theatre, and visual arts. The fellowship supports approximately 300 artists annually based on artistic excellence, offering a transformative opportunity for intense productivity and creativity.
Information & Application Details:
Application Periods:
- Fall Winter 2025-2026: Deadline – February 10, 2025 (for residencies Sept 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026)
- Spring Summer 2026: Deadline – September 10, 2025 (for residencies March 1 – August 31, 2026)
Eligibility:
- Open to artists working in architecture, film/video arts, interdisciplinary arts, literature, music composition, theatre, and visual arts.
- Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree-seeking program during the residency period.
- Artists in various stages of their practice are encouraged to apply.
- No discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, etc.
- Financial assistance is available for travel reimbursement and need-based stipends.
How to Apply: Submit your application online via MacDowell’s application portal. A nonrefundable processing fee of $30 USD is required.
Submission Requirements: Work samples, a project proposal, and a CV/biography. One application is allowed every 24 months.
- Architecture & Landscape Architecture: Include visual representation of the work. If proposing design work, submit 10 images with explanations, a PDF of a one-page executive summary of your CV. If proposing writing, submit a 10-page writing sample and a PDF of a one-page executive summary.
- Film/Video Arts:
- Screenwriting: Submit a full screenplay in PDF, a one-page summary, and optionally a video sample.
- Film/Video: Submit two film samples (one work-in-progress and one completed), or for short films, three samples. Ensure links work for 12 weeks.
- Interdisciplinary Arts: Provide documentation of two different projects completed in the last four years. Submit a combination of images, audio, videos, scripts, work plans, or storyboards.
- Literature: Submit a 15-20 page writing sample for fiction/nonfiction, 6-10 poems for poetry, a script and accompanying audio for podcasts, or up to 35 pages for graphic work.
- Music Composition: Submit audio recordings and scores of three representative works, including details of composition and performance methods if applicable.
- Theatre: Submit a completed script, 30-page excerpt, or video documentation of a performance.
- Visual Arts: Submit 8 digital images of your artwork (under 5MB each), including installation views or video if relevant.
Selection Process: An anonymous panel of distinguished professionals in each discipline reviews applications. Selection is based on artistic excellence.
Program Benefits:
- No residency fees; artists are provided with a studio, accommodations, and three meals per day for up to six weeks.
- Need-based stipends and travel reimbursement grants available.
- Artists will have access to a supportive and inspiring environment conducive to creative development.
- Stipends: Need-based stipends of up to $1,500 available for rent, utilities, childcare, and lost income.
- Travel Grants: Domestic and international travel grants to cover the cost of travel to MacDowell, based on financial need.
- Named Fellowships: Fellows are considered for Named Fellowships, which support specific fields or individuals.
- On-Site Facilities: Studios spread across 450 acres with accommodations. Limited internet access in studios; Wi-Fi in the library and Zoom spaces.
- Community Support: A welcoming, collaborative atmosphere with opportunities to present work to peers. Social events and local services available.
- Living Environment: The MacDowell campus is in a rural area with outdoor activities available, including jogging and bike rentals. Local gym memberships and swimming ponds are accessible.
- Cultural Environment: The town of Peterborough is known for its welcoming community and vibrant downtown area.
Contact & Resources:
- Email: admissions@macdowell.org
- Phone: +1 603-924-3886, extension 113
Website link:
https://www.macdowell.org/apply/apply-for-fellowship
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