hold space retreat for artists of color

This program offers artists and cultural workers of color dedicated time for communal living, creative practice, and rest on Ox-Bow’s historic campus in Saugatuck, Michigan. Designed to nurture reflection, collaboration, and renewal, the retreat provides individuals or groups of up to twelve participants space to create, organize, and connect within a supportive environment. Retreats may be scheduled for one to seven nights between September 14–20, 2026.

Participants receive lodging, two chef-prepared meals per day, and 24-hour access to our studios. Each retreat is self-directed, allowing participants to engage the campus in ways that best align with their interests and goals. Ox-Bow’s studios include facilities for metals, ceramics, printmaking, fiber, painting, and writing—each supported by on-site studio managers who can provide technical guidance and support.

The Hold Space Retreat celebrates the flexibility of creative practice. Proposals may include individual studio projects across disciplines, self-organized group retreats featuring collaborative projects or guest speakers, planning or research retreats for nonprofits or collectives, curatorial or exhibition projects using Ox-Bow’s gallery spaces, or social gatherings and creative dinners designed in collaboration with Ox-Bow’s culinary team. This openness allows each retreat to take on a rhythm and character that reflects the needs of its participants.

Proposals are reviewed by a panel of BIPOC artists and curators familiar with Ox-Bow’s programs. The Hold Space Retreat is fully funded and valued at $300 per person, per day.