In September 2020, we are piloting a day-residency program for writers, artists, and creators to work in the Mastheads studios on the grounds of Arrowhead, the historic homestead where Herman Melville wrote Moby Dick.
The day-residency is open to the public for individual, creative projects. We see this program as an opportunity to extend the Mastheads’ mission to support new writing, thinking, design, and visual art in Pittsfield.
The day-residency includes private use of your choice of The Mastheads studios, a tour of Melville’s historic home, and access to the extensive grounds and trail network at Arrowhead.
The day-residency rate is $100 per day, with an optional pay-what-you-can additional contribution to support our free public humanities programming in Pittsfield.
Several slots are reserved for Pittsfield residents who would like to participate but may not have the means to do so. If this is you, just email us at info@themastheads.org and let us know why you’d like to participate!
You may reserve a total of one to five consecutive or non-consecutive days.
On the first day you arrive, check-in begins at 10AM. If you attend for more than one consecutive day, your additional days may begin at dawn.
This is a socially-distanced residency! Housing is not provided, and all residents must observe Massachusetts travel guidelines. All studios will be cleaned with Lysol between reservations.
Please read our Cancellation Policy and FAQs below before applying.
If you would like to share a piece of work you produce during your day-residency, please send it to us at info@themastheads.org!
Refund & Cancellation Policy
You may cancel your reservation up to 48 hours in advance. After that, we will charge you the full amount of your stay. If you have Covid or flu-like symptoms in the days leading up to your residency, we will issue a full refund, minus a small processing fee of $15. Just send us an email.
FAQs
Where is Arrowhead?
What kind of facilities does Arrowhead have?
Arrowhead’s grounds include Melville’s barn and house, as well as acres of meadows and forest trails. There are two very clean bathrooms and a gift shop in the barn.
Are there refreshments available nearby?
The nearest restaurant or food market is approximately 2 miles away. If you don’t want to leave the site, bring enough food and water for the day.
What amenities do the Mastheads studios have?
The Mastheads studios are rustic and open air. They do not have electricity or wi-fi. Each studio has a built-in bench, a built-in desk, a chair, and a unique series of pivoting wall panels to control natural light, airflow, and views. Past residents have reported unprecedented productivity within them!
How do I get my key?
You’ll get your key at the front desk, in Melville’s barn. You can also reserve a house tour (included in your reservation), if you wish, at this time.
Why 10AM for check-in?
Arrowhead opens at 9:30, and they need time to sanitize your studio before you arrive. If you are joining us for more than one consecutive day, you are welcome to enter your studio at dawn after the first day, since you’ll already have a key.
How late can I stay?
Please prepare to leave for the day before dark. You may drop your key in the locked mailbox at the Arrowhead barn on your way out.
Can I leave and come back?
Sure. But please observe social distancing guidelines wherever you go.
Will I be acknowledged as a Mastheads resident?
We may include select work samples or names of our day-residency pioneers in our 2020-21 publications. If you’d rather not be listed, just let us know.