Artist-in-Residence Program Offers Artists a Retreat in the Porcupine Mountains BY CORA FOLEY
T
he annual Artist-in-Residence Program’s mission is “To offer residencies to new and established artists of recognized excellence from around the world to pursue their creative process in a wilderness environment.” The program, sponsored by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, is open to artists to pursue their creative process while living amid the natural beauty of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan’s rugged Upper Peninsula. Only five artists of recognized excellence are selected annually to participate in the program.
Selection is based on artistic integrity and the artist’s ability to reside in a wilderness environment, relate to and interpret the park through their medium, and a willingness to donate an original, finished piece of art inspired by their stay in the Porkies. Artists are also asked to give a demonstration or discussion with the public during their residencies. Selected artists stay two-three weeks in “Dan’s Cabin,” built as a tribute to Dan Urbanski, the founding president of the Friends of the Porkies and an awardwinning photographer. The rustic cabin includes an icebox, woodstove and gas stove. There is no electricity LEFT: “Coneflower Delight” limited edition print by Nancy Byrum from private collection of Cora Foley. Photography by Cora Foley BELOW: Artist Nancy Byrum at work on a paint-pour/hand-detailed piece while visiting in Canadian Lakes. Photography by Cora Foley
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THE CANADIAN LAKER
