Organizer Information
Ray of Sunshine Agritourism LLC is a creative camping and glamping destination located on a working farm in Mercer, Pennsylvania. The organization focuses on the intersection of agritourism, nature, and art, providing a sanctuary where guests and artists can reconnect with the land. Founded on the principles of community stewardship and sustainable living, Ray of Sunshine is an emerging space that values the "handmade" life. They aim to nurture creativity by offering a cozy, welcoming environment where makers and artists can find inspiration in the natural world, farm history, and the culture of rural Pennsylvania.
Title & Description
Ray of Sunshine Artist & Makers Residency
This residency is a work-trade program designed to "feed both the hands and the heart." It offers a unique blend of creative retreat and farm immersion. Artists are provided with free accommodation in a glamping cabin in exchange for assisting with farm stewardship and site development tasks. The purpose is to allow artists space and time to create work inspired by the farm’s culture, history, or natural environment—whether that inspiration is literal or conceptual. It is a program for those who enjoy "tiny living," the outdoors, and being part of a growing, safe, and responsible community of stewards.
Categories
The residency is extremely broad and inclusive of all "makers," including:
- Visual Arts: Painters, Photographers, Videographers.
- Craft & Trades: Masons, Carpenters, Glass Artists, Potters, Jewelers.
- Music & Literature: Songwriters, Musicians, Writers.
- Nature & Land: Gardeners, Sustainable Designers, Graphic Designers.
Eligibility
- Who can apply: Open to artists and craftspeople of all levels (Emerging to Established).
- International/National: Open to anyone capable of traveling to Mercer, PA (Airport pickup from local hubs is provided).
- Requirements: Applicants must be comfortable with "tiny living" and "extended glamping." They must be "safe, responsible community members" and willing to engage in physical farm tasks.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Free Accommodation: 1 week to 2 months in the "LuLu" glamping cabin (sleeps 1–3 people).
- Transport: Free airport pickup/drop-off and grocery runs or rides to town.
- Resources: Access to shop tools, equipment, and any sustainably harvested materials from the farm.
- Exposure: Opportunities to display and sell art within the guest cabins, plus social media features, blog posts, and letters of recommendation.
- Kitchen: Access to a full kitchen for meal preparation.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Simple Application Process: Designed to be "hassle-free."
- Personal Info & Portfolio: Basic contact details and examples of previous work/experience.
- Statement of Intent: How you plan to use the farm as inspiration and your willingness to contribute to farm tasks.
- Skills Assessment: A summary of your ability level for tasks like gardening, trail maintenance, or building.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: Ongoing
- Residency Period: 1 week to 2 months.
Location
Mercer, Pennsylvania, United States
Additional Details
Trade for Residency: This is a work-trade program. Residents are expected to contribute 15–20 hours per week to farm tasks. Work is tailored to the artist's ability and may include group trail maintenance, cottage siding, furniture refinishing, graphic design, or gardening. Artists are expected to bring the bulk of their own specialized mediums/materials, though farm-harvested materials are free to use.