Organizer Information

The mission of Write On, Door County is to inspire readers and writers of all ages and at all stages of their creative lives. Located on a 59-acre campus on Wisconsin's northeast peninsula, the organization provides a sanctuary for artistic expression. They offer a wide range of programs, including residencies, workshops, and community events, both in-person and online, to foster a supportive environment for the literary arts.

Title & Description

2026 Dick Scuglik Memorial Fellowship
This program honors the memory of Dick Scuglik and his lifelong passion for painting and books. The fellowship is specifically geared toward writers interested in ekphrasis. The purpose is to facilitate a cross-disciplinary dialogue between a writer and a visual artist. Participants will experience a week of intensive collaboration, resulting in a public showcase where their responsive works are shared with the community.

Categories

Literature, Writing, Poetry, Prose, and Visual Arts.

Eligibility

  • Professional Status: Open to both published and unpublished writers.
  • Age Limit: Applicants must be at least 21 years of age.
  • Academic Status: Writers currently enrolled in graduate writing programs are eligible to apply.
  • Specialization: Must demonstrate a clear ability and interest in ekphrastic writing.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Residency: A one-week stay at the Write On, Door County campus (June 14 – June 21, 2026).
  • Travel Cost: A small fund is available to assist the selected writer with travel expenses related to the residency.
  • Mentorship/Collaboration: Direct collaborative experience with glass and sculptural artist Laurel Grey.
  • Publicity: Opportunity to present work at a public event and engage with a regional audience.

Application Fee

$40.00 (non-refundable).

Application Requirements

  • Sample Artworks: 10-15 pages of a work sample demonstrating ekphrastic writing.
  • Motivation Letter: A statement of interest (1-3 paragraphs) specifically addressing ekphrasis.
  • CV/Publications: A list of publications (if any) and a one-paragraph biographical statement.
  • Portfolio: Excerpts of longer works are acceptable if they fit the ekphrastic theme.

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
  • Residency Period: June 14 – June 21, 2026
  • Public Event: Scheduled during the residency week

Location

Juddville/Sturgeon Bay, Door County, Wisconsin, United States

Additional Details

The selected writer is not required to have an academic background but must be comfortable speaking about their work in a casual, public setting. The collaborative work creation occurs prior to the residency start date, so applicants should be prepared for remote engagement with the artist leading up to June.

Website Link: https://writeondoorcounty.org/get-inspired-2/