THE ACRES

Artist Residency

Our residency provides artists with the conditions for exploring ideas and their practice without distraction.

It’s built for artists who seek to advance their work, whether through research, experimentation, or the sustained development of new work.

On five wooded acres between Detroit and Ann Arbor, the residency provides a rhythm that everyday life rarely allows. Here, days are devoted to the studio, to experimenting, critical thought, refining what drives your practice, and deep engagement with one’s work.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

24/7, dedicated studio access

Work at your own pace in a large, light-filled studio. The open layout allows for multiple projects in progress at once and plenty of natural light and wooded views.

Natural setting

Set within five wooded acres, the residency offers a natural environment for focus and renewal. Trail hikes and other outdoor activities are available in nearby cities to deepen your connection to the landscape.

Private artist accommodations

A quiet two-bedroom cottage surrounded by trees, just steps from the studio — your private space to rest, reflect, and recharge.

Momentum building support

Access optional opportunities for growth and exchange, including studio visits and informal conversations with other artists.

Getting around

While the property is tucked into the countryside, a reliable (if quirky) old Saab is available for resident use, along with easy access to common rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

Essentials and amenities

The cottage includes all utilities, wifi, and basic household supplies like dishware, soap, paper goods, and in-unit laundry, so you can focus fully on your work.

ACCOMODATIONS

You’ll stay on property at our private artist cottage.

Includes: 2 bedroom, 1 bath. Separate from the main house and the studio. Full kitchen, back deck, side patio with firepit, private driveway, heating/cooling, washer/dryer and full 360 nature views.

See more here.

Former Artists In Residence

RESIDENCY FAQs

  • Is there a required schedule or program?
    No. This residency is fully self-directed. There are no production requirements or mandatory activities. Artists are free to set their own pace and focus.

    Do I need to decide if I want critiques or studio visits in advance?
    They’re entirely optional and can be decided when you arrive. Most artists find them to be highly valuable to hear what is resonating, gathering supportive feedback, and building creative momentum.

  • How long can I stay?
    Residencies range from two to five weeks, depending on availability and your preference. Our recommendation is at least 3 weeks.

    What does the residency cost?
    The residency fee is $450 per week, per artist. Your fee includes a private residence, access to five acres of wooded land, and opportunities for one-on-one studio visits, open studios, access to a vehicle, and more.

    Why is there a fee?
    The residency is independently run, and each fee directly supports the care and upkeep of the space — from maintaining the studio and cottage to providing time and resources for visiting artists. The goal is to keep the experience as accessible as possible while sustaining a space built to nurture creative growth, reflection, and genuine connection.

  • Where will I stay?
    You’ll stay in a private artist’s cottage nestled in the woods on the same property as the studio.

    What’s included in the cottage?
    The space includes 2 beds, 1 bath, a well-equipped kitchen, high-speed WiFi, an in-unit washer/dryer, a deck with grill, a side patio with a firepit, a game room, and a private driveway.

    Are household items provided?
    Yes. Fresh linens, towels, and household essentials are provided, along with a washer/dryer and full 360° nature views.

    Is the cottage shared?
    No, the cottage is entirely private and reserved for the artist in residence. If applying with another artist, you will share the cottage.

    Can I view the space before applying?
    Yes, you can see photos and details here.

    → See the full What’s Included section for a detailed breakdown of accommodations, studio access, community offerings, and amenities.

  • Are art supplies provided?
    No. Please bring your own paints, canvases, brushes, notebooks, or any other materials essential to your practice or what you want to explore. For painters, there are limited stretcher bars available, so please bring what sizes you’d need.

    Can I order supplies ahead of time?
    Yes. You’re welcome to pre-order supplies for delivery to the residency. Craft stores are within 15 minutes, and full art supply stores within 30 minutes. Major retailers like Jerry’s and Blick also ship directly to the property.

    Are there basic tools we can use?
    Yes, we have basic hand tools and power tools available in the barn next to the studio. If you want to access these, we can show you them when you arrive.

    Are meals included?
    We offer a first-night welcome dinner with us (the hosts) to help you settle in. For the remainder of the stay, groceries and meal preparation are the responsibility of each artist. The cottage kitchen is fully equipped for cooking and food storage, and there’s a local grocery store just a few minutes away.

    Are travel costs covered?
    No. Transportation to and from the residency, as well as local travel during your stay, are not included.

  • Do I need a car?
    The property is in the countryside, so while it’s possible to get around without one, access to transportation is helpful.

    Is there a car available?
    Yes. Artists may use an older but reliable Saab for short local trips. We’ll walk you through its quirks when you arrive.

    Are there other options for getting around?
    Uber and Lyft operate in the area and are available for rides to nearby towns and galleries.

  • Can my family stay with me during the residency? Loved ones are welcome to visit the first or last weekend of the residency. We do this to minimize distractions for the residents and maximize their focused time here.

    What about other friends or artist? Artists and friends are welcome for shorter studio visits focused on the art and artist. While the studio visits can happen anytime, they are also only permitted to stay overnight during the first or last weekend.

  • Can I apply with another artist?

    Yes, the residency can accommodate 2 artists at once. We will not match you with another artist, so if you want to apply with another person, please make sure they also apply. We won’t attach solo artists together.

    What if something happens if I apply and my dates of availability change?

    Please contact us as soon as you know and provide alternate dates. Depending on how soon the residency is, we will try to work with you to find a solution.

    Is the residency juried?

    Yes, the residency is blind juried, and the jurors rotate. So if you apply and aren’t accepted this round, please apply again in the next application window!

Artist Application

The residency is open 2x during the year for 2-5 week periods. We open our application 1x a year and plan for both seasons at once.

We strive to accommodate as many artists as possible within those timeframes. You can apply solo or with another artist. If you apply with another artist, you must both submit applications.

The application is juried, so please include pieces that you feel embody your strongest work. Once artists are selected, you will receive a welcome email with information to help you plan for your residency.

We can't wait to hear from you!