arts retreat 2026

The Arts Retreat artist residency program of the Cultural Center in New York Mills focuses on providing dedicated artists time for creative development and exploration. The program offers a unique taste of life in rural Minnesota while allowing the artists virtually uninterrupted time in which to immerse themselves in their artwork.

When the Cultural Center was founded its name was “The New York Mills Arts Retreat.” The artist retreat and residency program remains central to the mission, purpose, values, and vision of the Center today.

Artists from all disciplines (performance, written, audio and visual media) will be considered for a residency. The selection committee awards residencies to artists based on artistic merit and commitment to the arts.

There is just one artist at a time here on residency, which supports our focus on providing virtually uninterrupted time for creative development and exploration.

During Your Stay

The New York Mills Arts Retreat owns a cozy one bedroom bungalow approximately three blocks south of “downtown” New York Mills. The house is within walking or biking distance of the Cultural Center, a grocery store, restaurants, banks, the bakery, the seasonal outdoor swimming pool and the New York Mills schools.

The house is equipped with a queen sized bed, rocking chair, writing desk, drafting table, comfy chairs and more. The kitchen is stocked with dishes, pots and pans, coffee pot, tea pot, etc. Linens and towels are provided as well.

The house does not have a computer, television, or car. While on residency we hope to keep away the everyday distractions that can impede the creative process. We do offer wireless internet both at the house and the Center, as we have found this to be essential to some artists’ work. The City library also has wireless access, as well as computers that are available to you while on residency. There are bicycles provided at the retreat house for getting around. Mass transportation in our rural community is limited. Having your own automobile may be a help to you and can be useful for exploring the region; however, you can get along fine without the transportation afforded by a vehicle. Staff and Cultural Center members are often willing to offer you a ride someplace if needed. It all depends on the goals of your residency and your lifestyle.

October deadline is for residencies January-June.