Brief Description & Theme:
The Artist at Pine Needles Residency is a program by the St. Croix Watershed Research Station that aims to enhance scientific understanding through art. It provides artists and writers with an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, interact with research scientists, and explore the intersection of art and science. Since 2002, over 75 artists and writers have participated in this summer residency program.

Information & Application Details:

  • Stipend: $650 per week, plus up to $400 for travel support
  • Residency Duration: 2, 3, or 4 weeks (between May and October)
  • Location: Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota, USA
  • Community Engagement: Residents are encouraged to engage with the local community and must donate an original work inspired by their experience within one year of residency

Eligibility:

  • Open to writers and artists of any discipline whose work focuses on environmental or natural history topics
  • Includes an emerging artist category for individuals who show artistic promise but are not yet established
  • Applicants must be 21 years or older

How to Apply & Submission Requirements:

  • Submit a completed application form, artist statement, program statement, community engagement proposal, and examples of work
  • Applications must be postmarked or electronically received by 11:59 p.m. CST on March 2, 2025
  • Applicants will be notified of the results by April 4, 2025

Selection Process:

  • Applications are reviewed for alignment with the program’s theme of art and science integration
  • Selected applicants must commit to donating an original artwork within a year

Program Benefits:

  • Direct interaction with scientists and access to reference materials
  • Opportunity to immerse in nature and develop new artistic work
  • Financial support through stipend and travel assistance
  • Inclusion in a recognized artistic community focused on environmental themes

Contact & Resources:

  • Operations Manager: Alaina Fedie
  • Email: afedie@smm.org
  • Phone: (651) 433-5953 x12
  • Funded by: Minnesota Legacy Amendment—Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund

Website: https://new.smm.org/scwrs/programs/artist/

ResidencyNetworkingPublicationStipendTravel costs