Organizer Information:

Touchstone Center for Crafts is a unique crafts school and residency campus located in the scenic Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. It offers a creative environment for artists and makers to live, work, and connect within a community of peers.

Title & Description:

Applications are open for the 2026 Touchstone Summer Artist-in-Residence program.

This program is designed for self-motivated individuals seeking the time, space, and equipment to focus heavily on their studio practice. Artists may apply for a specific 2-week span between the months of June and August. Because no instruction is provided, qualified candidates must possess a strong working knowledge and understanding of the equipment and tools used within their designated studio.

Category:

Fine Crafts & Mixed Media.

(Summer residents will work out of a shared mixed-use space accommodating ceramics, drawing/painting, writing, fibers, and other mediums).

Eligibility:

  • Who: Self-motivated artists, writers, and makers.
  • Experience Level: Must have a strong working knowledge of the equipment in their chosen medium (no instruction is provided).
  • Requirements: Due to the rural location, bringing a car is strongly recommended. All residents must also attend a mandatory safety orientation via Zoom prior to arriving on campus.

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Workspace: Access to a shared, prepped mixed-use studio space.
  • Accommodation: Private lodging is included.
  • Facilities: Access to a fully equipped communal kitchen, grill, and dining area.
  • Meals: Summer residents have the option to add on a prepared meal plan for the duration of their stay for an additional fee.

Application Fee & Program Costs:

  • Application Fee: $5 USD.
  • Residency Fee: $700 USD (Includes private lodging and studio access).
  • Studio Deposit: An additional $150 USD refundable studio deposit is required (refunded at the end of the residency following studio cleanup).
  • Note: All fees must be paid in full 2 weeks prior to arrival. Consumables (oxygen, propane, etc.) and materials (steel, clay, etc.) are the responsibility of the resident and will be charged at cost. Linens can be provided for an additional $50.

How to Apply?

Submit your materials through the official Touchstone application portal between March 1 and April 1. If you have specific questions about studio equipment or the application, you can email Travis Winters at twinters@touchstonecrafts.org.

Key Dates:

  • Application Window: March 1 – April 1, 2026.
  • Mandatory Safety Orientation: To be scheduled via Zoom before arrival.
  • Residency Dates: A 2-week span of the artist's choosing between June and August 2026.
  • Check-In: First day of the residency between 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
  • Check-Out: Last day of the residency by 11:00 AM.

Location:

Farmington, Pennsylvania, USA (Laurel Highlands).

Contact Information:

Email: twinters@touchstonecrafts.org (Travis Winters)