About the Open Call

Founded in 1902, Byrdcliffe is one of the earliest utopian art communities in the United States. Located approximately 2 hours north of New York City in the unique community of Woodstock, NY, Byrdcliffe has welcomed artists, intellectuals and creative practitioners to live and work surrounded by the serene beauty of the Catskill Mountains on a 250-acre property. The primary criteria for acceptance to Byrdcliffe’s Residency program is artistic excellence and demonstrated commitment to one’s field of endeavor. Artists in multiple disciplines are encouraged to apply in three general categories: Visual Arts, Literary Arts and Performing Arts. While creative practices in all areas are welcome, Spring Individual Residencies especially provide solace and privacy for writers and scholars. Limited residencies are available for Visual Artists. All resident artists also have the opportunity to participate in an exhibition, performance, or presentation at Byrdcliffe’s Kleinert James gallery in downtown Woodstock during the year following their residency. Byrdcliffe is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all persons. Accommodations consist of simple historic Arts & Crafts era cottages clustered together in a forest setting. Byrdcliffe has a limited number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and studio spaces that are accessible. Each cottage is unique in size, layout, and cost of residency fee. All cottages are intended to be a live/work space, unless stated otherwise. Shared option entails sharing the space with another applicant assigned by Byrdcliffe. Co-applicants apply individually, but must identify their co-applicant in their application.

What is Offered

Individual Cottage Residency with potential for exhibition, performance, or presentation.

Requirements

Primary criteria for acceptance is artistic excellence and demonstrated commitment. Applicants must be 18+. Byrdcliffe is unable to accommodate children or family members. Only certified service animals can be accommodated; pets are strictly forbidden. Applicants should review cottage details on the website for suitability.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit through the 2026 Summer AiR Individual Cottage Application portal. Carefully review cottage details on the Woodstock Guild website to determine suitability for living and creative needs.