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MacDowell has awarded the equivalent of more than $2.3 million in fellowships to 155 artists from 30 U.S. states and 14 countries, arriving from as far afield as Chile and India, Pakistan and Australia, and from Alaska to Texas. The incoming artists-in-residence work in all disciplines. Read more.
In 1907, Marian MacDowell deeded their farm to the Edward MacDowell Association and founded the MacDowell Colony. The first guests arrived that year: sisters Helen Farnsworth Mears, a sculptor, and Mary Mears, a writer. Mears wrote about her time on site for The Craftsman in July 1909.
Find out about our history, our mission, discover some of the works that were created here and some of the notable artists who have made work in our studios, and watch a couple of videos that offer little glimpses into the magic of MacDowell.
MacDowell awards Fellowships in seven disciplines to about 300 artists each year. There are no residency fees, and need-based stipends and travel grants are available to individuals awarded a Fellowship.
Sections: Exhibition Highlights | History | Early Years | Mid-20th Century | Contemporary, 1980s to the Present. Acclaimed American composer Edward MacDowell wanted to give other artists the opportunity to experience the perfect conditions for creative work that he had found on his farm in Peterborough, New Hampshire.
During her lifetime nearly 500 writers, more than 200 composers, and 170 painters used the colony as a working retreat. Originally a summer facility, it began year-round operations in 1955. Notable fellows included James Baldwin, Audre Lorde, Aaron Copland, Meredith Monk, and Faith Ringgold.
May 24, 2024 · Since 1907, the MacDowell Colony has offered a creative sanctuary to artists, writers, and composers. Founded by American composer Edward MacDowell and his wife Marian, the Colony's underlying philosophy is that artists working in different disciplines can benefit from contact with one another.
