Arts Retreat Residency Program
Dedicated Time and Space for Creative Exploration
The Arts Retreat Residency Program at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center offers artists the gift of uninterrupted time for creative development, research, and reflection—along with a meaningful connection to life in rural Minnesota.
Originally founded in 1990 as the New York Mills Arts Retreat by John Davis before expanding as the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center in 1992, the Arts Retreat residency program remains at the heart of the Cultural Center’s mission to support artistic innovation, cultural exchange, and community vitality.
Residency Overview
The Arts Retreat welcomes artists from all disciplines—performance, literary, audio, and visual media—to apply for residencies.
Participants are selected based on:
- Artistic merit
- Dedication to their craft
- Commitment to creative growth
- Interest in developing community through the arts
To ensure focus and solitude, only one artist is in residence at a time, providing an atmosphere conducive to deep creative engagement.
Residencies last two to six weeks and include:
✅ No cost for housing or studio use
🏡 Private lodging in a one-bedroom bungalow
🎨 Access to studio space at the Cultural Center
🌐 Wireless internet at both locations
Artists provide their own transportation and meals. No stipend is offered at this time.
Community Outreach
Visiting Artist Adam Spaeth leading a community mural project at the local pool in New York Mills.
As part of their residency, the Artist in Residence will create and lead a community outreach program designed to engage local residents in the arts. This program could take the form of a workshop, reading, performance, or other interactive event held at the Cultural Center, offering participants a hands-on opportunity to explore the artist’s creative process and medium.
Additionally, the artist may collaborate with local organizations such as the New York Mills Schools, Senior Center, or Library to expand the reach of their project. These partnerships could include student art sessions, intergenerational storytelling workshops, or community art displays, fostering meaningful connections through shared creative experiences.
Residents can partner with our Artistic Director, Megan Shirley-Ross, for assistance in designing and executing their community outreach program.
Application Information
Deadlines
- April 1 — for July–December residencies
- October 1 — for January–June residencies
Applications are accepted year-round.
How to Apply
- Click the link below.
- Attach all required materials.
- Email questions or concerns directly to airapps@kulcher.org.
If you experience issues attaching documents, please email them to the same address.
For questions or support, contact:
Megan Shirley-Ross, Artistic Director
📧 megan@kulcher.org | ☎️ 218-385-3339
Please use “AIR Application” as your email subject line.
📬 Applicants will receive notification of acceptance or non-acceptance within 30–45 days after each deadline.
👉 Apply Now! Click here to apply for an artist residency >
During Your Residency
Your stay includes a comfortable one-bedroom bungalow located three blocks south of downtown New York Mills—within walking or biking distance of:
- The Cultural Center
- Grocery store and bakery
- Local restaurants
- Parks, walking trail, school, and seasonal outdoor swimming pool
Amenities
- Queen-sized bed, writing desk, drafting table, and comfortable seating
- Fully equipped kitchen with cookware, dishes, and coffee/tea pots
- Linens and towels provided
- Wireless internet at both the home and the Cultural Center
The house intentionally does not include a television, computer, or car, allowing artists to step away from daily distractions. Staff or community members are often happy to assist with transportation when needed. A personal vehicle is optional but can be helpful for exploring the surrounding region.
A Space for Reflection and Renewal
The New York Mills Arts Retreat provides a rare opportunity to slow down, focus deeply, and rediscover the joy of creation. Surrounded by Minnesota’s quiet landscapes and a welcoming small-town community, residents find space to experiment, grow, and connect with their artistic purpose.
We look forward to reviewing your application and welcoming you to New York Mills.
