The Millay Colony officially closes its residency program at the end of November. At that time we begin four months of juries, campus repairs, and administrative work. This allows us to be ready for the next years artists-in-residence.

During these months we offer a Winter Shakers program, an exclusive opportunity for former Millay Colony residents as well as guest writers, artists & composers to stay at the Colony during “off-season.” This program takes its name from the rich history of people who joined Shaker communities for shelter during the hard winter months only to return to their “regular” lives when warmer weather arrived.

Winter Shaker residencies are available during December, January, February, and March. Weekly Fee for alumni is $350, guest artists, $400.

As with our regular artists residency season, a room and studio is provided for all Winter Shakers, along with bedding and towels. There is no chef available during winter months, and each resident is responsible for bringing their own food and meal preparation. A car is required for those staying longer than a week.

We also offer a limited number of exchange residencies for alumni, with the option to participate in a ten-hour per week work exchange. Work exchange is at the discretion of the colony directors, which may include painting, fix-ups, cleaning, administrative work, etc.

Contact Managing Director, Calliope Nicholas for an application form or with additional questions: residency@millaycolony.org or  518 392-3103.