william steeple davis artists' residency

The William Steeple Davis Trust Artist Residency was established in 1976 under the will of Mr. Davis with the mission to provide “...a temporary place of abode for persons of good character who are or have been actively engaged in cultural professions, particularly in the arts, and who are in need of a quiet place for rest or creative work and are without adequate funds to provide for such accommodations.”

Applications are accepted from March 1st until April 30th of each calendar year. Once the application has been submitted artists will be notified that it has been received. A short list of applicants will be slated for an interview at the Residence in June. Zoom interviews will be considered for those unable to travel to Orient. Selection is made soon thereafter, usually by early summer. 

Residency Term and Requirements

The residence period is 50 weeks, starting on October 15th in the current year and ending on October 1st in the following year. The general expectation is that the resident will spend their full time in residence involved in their artistic (or other “cultural”) work, since the main purpose of the Trust is the support of such work. Exceptions may be possible in the case of part-time employment or other gainful activity that does not interfere significantly with the main creative purpose of the Trust. These should be discussed in advance with the trustees. The trustees are responsible for all Trust functions and general supervision of the Trust property. Residents are required to sign a formal agreement with the Trust, which lists the responsibilities and rights of each party.