FAQ – Sheepscot Arts Preserve

FAQs

Basics

What about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion?

Yes!! We welcome all and look for a diverse selection of artists for each cohort/opportunity. It is our belief that offering space for people to live together in community and to make art and share their experience is a way to promote understanding and compassion that will then spread outwards. Our center was founded to give a platform to underrepresented and/or marginalized artists and we are very serious about this mission.

Is your property accessible to all?

We are a new art center and are working hard to make the property accessible to everyone. At this moment we are not ADA accessible but if you think our space will work for you, please contact us and we will work to the best of our ability to make it it accessible for you. By it’s very nature, people with mobility issues will find it difficult to get around. We are at the bottom of a long gravel driveway, the facilities are located in separate buildings accessed via an extensive lawn and through dirt paths through the woods. We invite anyone who needs it, to bring an aide with them to help them with whatever they may need. Their aide will have accommodation and the same access to food and meals as the residents.

Are you a scent-free campus?

We are not officially a scent free campus although we do ask people to limit their use of strong scents while here. This includes strong perfumes, beauty products, scented candles, and room fresheners. If you have a scent allergy, there is a place to let us know this on the application. We will ask that anyone who is on the property while you are here respects your needs.

What ages do you accept?

Currently we accept applicants over 21.

What does communal mean and does it matter if I want to be left alone?

For us communal means that for a brief period of time we are here, living in community with a common purpose. It takes all types of people to create an interesting community, and people who are quieter and like being alone add just as much to the whole as people who love to socialize.

For group residencies we have communal dinners and encourage people to stick around after dinner and share their lives a bit. But besides that you are on your own with a private workspace and bedroom. For Individual residencies, you will often be on the property with other artists and can spend as much or as little time with people as you choose.

Is this really free?

Yes it is. Our goal is to create a space that offers an opportunity to everyone regardless of their financial means.

Why is there an application fee if this is a free opportunity?

There is a $35 application fee that is payable on the application form. Although we are committed to give this opportunity to everyone regardless of their financial means, we also just simply don’t have the time to go through hundreds of applications. Your fee pays for our time, gives us the ability to compensate guest jurors, and pays for the expenses of collecting the applications. The application fee also lets us know you are serious about attending our residency if chosen.

Do you have stipends available?

For 2026 We are offering stipends of up to $500.00 with a $250.00 average, to help offset costs of childcare, travel, supplies, attendance etc. If you are accepted into the residency there will be space on your acceptance form to request a stipend. If your ability to attend this residency is dependent on a stipend, please note that everyone accepted into the program who needs a stipend will get one. We do ask that if you can afford these things on your own, that you leave this opportunity for people who cannot.

A request for a stipend has absolutely no bearing on our jury process or your acceptance.

Please understand we are trying our hardest to create an artist residency opportunity for everybody and not just people who can afford it. Therefore, if you can afford to come here without a stipend, we will be able to provide more opportunity for people who cannot attend without one. If you are on the other side of the scale, and will have trouble attending even with our stipend, there is an opportunity, on the intake form, to reach out to us and let us know. We cannot guarantee any stipend above $500 but we may have the ability to help further.

What is required of me if I am accepted?

If you are accepted into the program you will asked to submit a few examples of your work and some info for our website. If you are in a group residency you will be asked to introduce yourself to the cohort on orientation day and talk briefly about your work and your intentions for the residency. If you are part of an Individual residency with other artists on the property, you will take part in a casual version of introduction/orientation on your first day.

We would appreciate the donation of an art book or any book that inspires you, for our library. If you’ve published a book and want to add it to our library we would love that!

Other than that we just ask that while here, you take time out of your life, professional, social, personal etc. in order to focus on your work and/or your ideas and process.

Can I do remote work for my job while attending your residency?

This is tricky. While we recognize that not everybody has the luxury to take a few weeks off of work in order to attend an artist residency, we also created this space specifically to provide time and space away from daily life. We prefer that you wait to attend one of our sessions, until you have time off from your job and can give the time spent at our space your full attention.

If you do have an occasional important meeting that you just can’t miss there is no problem with that. But, please consider carefully, before applying, the spirit of what we are offering and be realistic about how you will actually be spending your time.

Why can’t I use oil paints, solvents, and materials that are harsh on the environment?

Please consider our septic system. If you are an oil painter or have a practice that uses other mediums that are not environmentally or septic friendly, we encourage you to still apply but to use your time here to explore other mediums. We have a special wash station for acrylic paints, and accept all gouache, water based inks, watercolors etc.

application info

Should I apply for an Individual Residency or a Group Residency?

The information on the residencies page will help you decide which residency type is right for you. On it you will find an in depth description of who is eligible for each type of residency and what to expect.

Can we apply as a group or a team?

This year we are not supporting groups of more than 2 people. In the future we will have space for teams of up to 6 people to stay for one week.

If you are applying as a group of 2 people, you must apply for an Individual Residency and you must each fill out a separate application.

What are the requirements for applying?

The application will ask you to answer a series of questions, some multiple choice and some longer answers. You will also have to submit samples of your work, your CV, and any relevant web links. We are not looking for your responses to be perfectly written, we are just trying to get a sense of your goals for the residency, who you are, how much you engage with your art practice, how you plan to spend your time here, and how you will fit into the larger group.

What type of artists do you accept?

As stated in the mission statement we are focused on offering opportunities to Visionary, Outsider, and Narrative artists. We see these as broad categories, and if you feel that our center resonates with what you create, please apply. For more information check out the Visionary, Outsider, Narrative artist page on our site. And, if you are unfamiliar with these terms please make sure you are familiar with what they mean before applying.

Also note, that we tend to prefer figurative styles of art over abstract, and really put an emphasis on looking for work that has a visually narrative or searching existential arc to it. But overall we are open to considering your application if you feel this is the right space for you.

Does Narrative Art refer to Writers?

No. Narrative art is a distinct style of Visual Art that utilizes images as a means of communication. It can be a series of sequential images or one image that conveys a sense of movement, storytelling and the passage of time. Some examples of narrative art are- art based on mythology, religious art, animation, street art, folk art, illustration, etc.

Do you accept Writers?

We do but we only offer spaces to a few writers per season. If you are planning to apply as a writer, please make sure you are familiar with our program and take the time to understand how you would fit into it. We do not ask that you fall into the categories of Visionary, Outsider or Visually Narrative work but we do ask that you consider what you will bring to our program as a whole, and apply only if you feel you are a good fit.

Do you only accept Visual Artists? If not, what facilities are available for other types of artists?

We accept all types of artists. Painters, sculptors, illustrators, writers (see above), performers, musicians, textile artists, graphic novelists, installation artists, performance artists, print makers etc. We are still building out our facilities so we may not be right for you at this time. For instance we do not have a kiln for ceramics. We do not have ventilation for stonework but have plenty of space outdoors for stone carving. For dancers or other performers we have a large barn with a concrete floor, a large flat mowed yard, and a small stage in the field plus various large indoor spaces with wooden floors.

If you are interested in applying but aren’t sure we have the facilities for you, feel free to reach out to ask us, and let us know what you need. We invite feedback from artists in various disciplines to help us build out the spaces to accommodate as many disciplines as we can.

Do I need to submit a project proposal as part of my application?

We do not require a project proposal in order to be considered for our residency. If you plan to work on a project while you are here, we want to know the details. There is a space in the application for you to describe your intentions. If you do not have a project proposal and want to spend your time here exploring your practice in new ways, that is fine with us. Nobody is required to have a completed project upon leaving. But we do ask that you apply with a serious intention to work to grow your practice.

If you are interested in attending an individual session of longer than 10 days you will need to submit a proposal to let us know your plans.

Who juries my work?

We are a small emerging residency center, so right now we are the sole jurors. As we grow in the future, we will create a jury pool from former residents, local artists and other art centers in the area.

Do I need to live in the US to apply?

No. You can apply from anywhere in the world as long as you are able to travel to the United States to attend the residency. It is mandatory that you speak enough English to be able to communicate your basic needs and to interact with the group. We do speak some Spanish.

How do I apply?

Please read through the entire website to familiarize yourself with our program. In particular the FAQs and the Residency types page can help you determine if this residency center is the right opportunity for you. When applications are open there will be a link to apply on the Apply Page.

Can I reapply next year if I wasn’t accepted this year?

We are a small residency center with limited space. If you feel you weren’t accepted due to lack of space, you are welcome to try again.

logistics

Do I need a car?

If you are part of a group residency- You do not need a car to be here. We provide groceries, some meals, and take requests on the days we do town runs. Although if you want to explore the wider area, or know that you will need to leave the property at your own convenience, you will need a car. If you live close enough to drive we encourage you to drive here. If you do not bring a car, you will be able to arrange rides with other members of the cohort who do have a car, and, depending on the day, there may be room in the truck for you during a town run. Just be aware that it’s a rural area, so to go pretty much anywhere you need a car to get around.

If you are part of an Individual residency- it is not required but way easier if you do have a car. We do less town runs during Individual residencies but if you do not have a car, we will make sure to help you get enough supplies at the beginning of your stay with us. You are more on your own during an Individual residency but if other artists are on the land with you at the same time, we will give you that information beforehand so you can potentially arrange rides with them.

How do I get to the property if I don’t drive?

Boston Logan Airport is 2 hours and 45 minutes from here by car.
Portland International Jetport is 1 hour away.

Concord Coachlines -The Midcoast Maine bus runs once a day and leaves from Logan Airport in Boston and stops in Portland Maine on its way up to our area. We can pick you up from the stop in Wiscasset or Damariscotta. Concord Coachlines also has buses between Boston/ Logan Airport, and Portland throughout the day. And a bus from NYC to Portland.

Amtrak’s downeaster train goes from Boston to Midcoast Maine. We will pick up in Brunswick.

Before each cohort or Individual Residency begins you will have the opportunity to talk with your fellow artists to potentially arrange a ride from them. There are also taxi services and rental car opportunities through the Portland Airport.

What stores are close by?

There is a small farm stand about 2 miles from the property.
Beyond that is a small upscale artisanal general store /restaurant about 3 miles away.
Damariscotta (15 minute drive) is the place to go for groceries and most other needs.
Whitefield has a general store (15 minute drive) with a farm, excellent cafe, and live music.
Wiscasset (10 minute drive) has a great bakery, sandwich place, and lots of fresh seafood.

Is there an art store nearby?

Salt Bay Art Supply is a small art store in Damariscotta. You are welcome to have your supplies delivered to the property before you arrive. Artist & Craftsman Supply in Portland is a huge well stocked art store. Portland is about an hour away.

What should I bring?

If you are accepted into the residency, you will get a list of suggested things to bring with you. You will need to bring all of your own art supplies.

What do you provide?

We provide all linens, towels, and provide some meals and groceries. We have communal art supplies available. These are supplies left behind by residents, so vary over time and are not dependable. We have a washing machine, dryer, and clothesline for you to use. You have free range of the property, and have a dedicated work space. You are able to also use any communal workspace you want for as long as you need.

Who cleans up after me?

You do! While we clean all the communal spaces everyday, it is up to you to take care of your laundry and your living space. If you work in one of the communal spaces, we also expect you to clean up after yourself when you are done.

You are expected to clean your own dishes after breakfast and lunch, and to clean up after you cook for yourself. During the group residencies, we eat a communal dinner and take turns cleaning the kitchen after. If you share meals with us during the Individual residency, you also will be expected to help clean up after these shared meals.

Can I bring my pet?

No.

No dogs are allowed on the property, although we obviously make an exception for trained service dogs that are necessary to help you navigate the world.

While we understand the value of emotional support animals, we do not have the capacity to have untrained dogs or pets of any kind on the property. Please respect our limitations.

There are 2 resident cats on the property. They may come visit you during your stay. If you have cat allergies we will house you in one of the Yurts but we cannot keep the cats out of the communal areas.

Meals

How do meals work during Group Residencies?

For group residencies, we provide groceries and pantry staples that you are free to use throughout your stay. You are responsible for prepping your own breakfast and lunch. There is sometimes prepared foods leftover or available for you during the day.

We provide a communal meal for dinner. Most of the time we cook this meal but we do have a rotation where teams of 2 residents are responsible for cooking dinner during 1-2 nights during their stay. We provide food for all meals regardless of who cooks it. We always team up people who aren’t comfortable cooking, with someone who is more comfortable in the kitchen.

We rotate kitchen clean up after dinner.

Do meals work the same in an Individual residency?

During an Individual residency, you will be responsible for preparing most of your meals. We do a communal dinner once a week. We provide staples and have groceries available. But be prepared to get supplies and feed yourself.

If you are part of a team of more than 2 people, you have use of the main kitchen but are responsible for your own meals including all the cooking, clean up, and supply runs.

What type of food do you serve?

We offer primarily vegetarian food with some exceptions but there is always a vegetarian option available. We primarily cook a lot of local fresh produce and grains. We also will use eggs and dairy when we cook.

Do you accommodate food allergies and special diets?

Yes! We will do our best to accommodate your food needs. Vegan and gluten-free substitutions are very easy with the type of food we serve. Although, if you have a severe food allergy we cannot guarantee there will be no cross contamination in the kitchen. And, if you have a very strict diet, you will want to bring in some supplemental food. If this is an issue for you, please contact us with any questions.

Can I cook my own food?

Yes you can. We have a separate fridge/dry goods box for guests to keep their own food. You can go to town and stock up on whatever groceries you want and you can prepare what you want in the main kitchen when it is free.

Weather and wildlife

What is the weather like?

Maine has a 4 season climate and the weather fluctuates a lot during each season! It can be really hot and humid in the summers and bitterly cold and snowy in the winters. Spring alternates being wet and cold, with being warm enough for the world to come back to life. Fall is the most beautiful month with the most pleasant weather but can get very cold at times. New England falls are famous for the beautiful foliage and that is true here. In general, rainstorms can happen any time. This can range from fast moving thunderstorms to a period of wet days.

What about bugs?

Summers in Maine are filled with bugs. Some are really annoying. During a wet summer, mosquitoes are especially bad. In early summer, there are ticks in the field and biting flies. Despite the bugs, it is still pleasant to be outside. We have natural repellents available for use, and will give you tips before you come of the best ways to dress. By mid August most of the biting bugs are not a problem.

Are there pets on the property?

Yes. There are two cats on the property. They tend not to go into the resident’s living or working spaces but do spend a lot of time in the communal areas including the dining room and living room of the Main House.

If you are allergic to cats, please be advised that you will be around cats during your stay. One cat in particular likes to get a lot of attention from residents.

What is the terrain like?

The residency center is located down a long driveway on a hill that looks out onto the surrounding area. There is a 5 acre homestead area with a large field of mowed grass and some cleared woods. There are bonfire pits, outdoor seating areas, primitive outdoor shelters, and covered porches. There is a large meadow filled with tons of wildflowers, wild blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries.

The rest of the 37 acres of the property is forested. There are many established paths leading through the forest, making it easy for you to explore the woods. There are paths down to the river, that lead through the salt marsh to the rivers edge. You are welcome to explore the entire property. The property boundaries are marked by old stone walls and property markers.

Are there hiking trails nearby?

Yes. There are trails through the woods on our property and property in conservation within walking and driving distance that welcomes the public.

Do you do public facing events while residents are on site?

If you are taking part in a group residency, we do not tend to have public events on the property.

If you are here for an Individual Residency, we may have a public facing event like a workshop, art night, or pop up show that you are welcome to attend if you would like.

Is there an opportunity for me to host an event while in residence?

If you have spoken with us beforehand we are able invite the public in for a workshop, pop up event, or performance you would like to put on. As this is a lot of work for us, we are selective about how often we do this but also excited to facilitate what we are able. At times we can also work with the town to put on events in Community buildings.

You are also welcome to offer a spontaneous workshop while in residence if you find that other residents are interested to take part.

Can I have visitors?

We do not allow visitors to the property unless we are doing an event. Talk to us if you would like an exception.

Are there days off and time to explore the area?

Many Residents take a break or get inspiration by exploring the local hiking trails or occasional short trips to one of the local towns. Some residents also leave the property as part of their practice- photography, filming, interviews etc. Anything that helps your process is great!

If you have friends here that you plan to hang out with or would like to spend most of your time exploring the area, then you should give yourself some time to do this before or after your residency period. There is no set schedule for your time spent during the residency but we are providing this opportunity for you to have time and space to explore your work.

What resources are available if I am having a problem while here?

We are here to listen and to help you with anything you need. If you are having a problem with someone in the residency we take that very seriously. We want to make sure everyone has a safe and comfortable space to work. We encourage communication, and will help facilitate whatever is best for the particular situation.

What are the expectations for residents?