Art In and About Nature

Artist Statement from Marcus Payzant

The Stonecreek Farm Artist Residency was an opportunity to truly disconnect and focus on my work in a new way. My work is generally inspired by nature so I thought this would be a great residency to generate many ideas for future pieces and give me time to focus for a couple of weeks. I quickly realized that the location and solitude allowed me to concentrate but was also challenging because it was very different than my lifestyle in Boston. The biggest distractions were wild turkeys and a family of deer that wandered by the studio multiple times each day. These welcomed “distractions” created natural breaks in my process and replaced the smart phone breaks and emails I was accustomed to. Instead of turning to technology, I would explore the miles of trails around the property or challenge myself to make quicker decisions with my artwork. Ultimately, I was forced to live with and resolve my work in unexpected ways that have continued to help me in my technical approach to making but also in my general work habits.

Who Should Apply?

We encourage graduate students, faculty or alumni from schools around the globe – keeping in mind visa and transportation status should be cleared through your academic organization.

Working artists are encouraged to use the residency to generate inspiration, create or develop new ideas or may have a specific project or show in mind.