New Harmony Clay Project
I arrived in New Harmony on a quiet Sunday evening. This small, historic town is a popular weekend destination for weddings and group events, but during the week—especially Mondays and Tuesdays—it slows down significantly, with most businesses closed and the streets nearly empty. As the week progresses, the town gradually comes back to life.
The local community is made up mostly of older white residents, and overall, the town lacks visible diversity. That said, my interactions with locals were friendly and welcoming, often marked by curious questions about where I was from and what brought me to New Harmony.
I spent my first day walking through the town and visiting several historic landmarks. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings led me to conclude that this residency is best suited for artists seeking a quiet, retreat-like environment—those who want time away from the hustle of daily life to focus deeply on their studio practice, enjoy nature walks, and build meaningful connections with a small cohort of fellow residents.
There’s an excellent coffee shop in town, owned and run by a kind and welcoming local. I also visited a recently opened ice cream shop that had a hip, modern vibe—a nice place to take a break from studio work. Just around the corner, you’ll find a tavern and an American Legion post, both offering a laid-back spot to mingle with town residents. The nearest full grocery store, however, is about a 30-minute drive away in a neighboring town, so a car is definitely helpful.
On my second day, I met with the current residents, Katie Botterman and Christie Cooper. They gave me a thorough tour of the studio, which was clean, well-organized, and clearly labeled. The soda/salt kiln appeared to be in excellent condition, and the studio was stocked with a generous selection of raw materials that were easy to access.
They also showed me the residency housing—a beautiful, historic four-bedroom home just a five-minute walk from the studio. It’s professionally cleaned and fully furnished, offering a charming and comfortable living space. Right next door is the unique “Roofless Church,” an architectural landmark where weddings are occasionally held.
If you're an artist looking for uninterrupted time to focus on your work in a serene, low-cost setting—with minimal distractions and a strong sense of solitude—New Harmony could be a great fit. The residency offers both a supportive studio environment and a peaceful, reflective place to live and create.
