Artist in Residence Program

Do you want to know more about our current Artist in Residence? See how they work and what they are thinking when creating? Read the most current blog to see photos of their works in progress and unique process!

Emerging and experienced artists from around the world participate in Arts on Main’s Artists in Residence program. Sponsored by the Cook Foundation, invited artists come to Gloucester to enjoy deeply focused time to explore, experiment, and to work independently. They share their talents and creative energy through community engagement events such as gallery talks, workshops and classes. “This exciting program enables invited artists to bring creative energy to the Gloucester community. To find inspiration in the people and in the beauty of this area while allowing the artists to work creatively at the highest levels,” said Melanie Chambers Hartman, former director of the Artist in Residence program for Arts on Main.

Establishing an artists in residency program in Gloucester is the realization of a dream of Adrianne Ryder Cook Joseph, founder and president of the Cook Foundation. “Gloucester’s surroundings are exceptional in their beauty, tranquility and authenticity. By sharing our unique environment with artists from around the world, we hope to nourish the creativity of artists from all disciplines. The interaction of these artists with our community will, in turn, stimulate our own creativity, grow our artistic community, and develop our reputation as an arts center,” explained Joseph.

Residency periods range from 2 to 8 weeks and artists partner with Arts on Main for community engagement events. “We look forward to encouraging these artists with the support of the local community and engagement through Arts on Main hosted events such as demonstrations, talks, workshops or performances,” said Betsy Henderson, Executive Director of Arts on Main.

Residencies are available on an invitational basis. Artists are invited to submit applications for consideration. Selection is based on artists’ work and community engagement proposals, and by evaluating the benefits of a residency period in Gloucester to the individual artist. Residencies are open to artists age 25 years and older who are not local residents. Degree-seeking students at the time of application are not eligible, however, post-graduate students will be considered.