Snowfarm
Snowfarm is nestled on a somewhat secluded property in Williamsburg, western Massachusetts. The campus boasts multiple studio buildings dedicated to a variety of media, including flame working, painting, printing, fibers, metalworking, and ceramics. Many of these buildings are historic barns and houses, thoughtfully renovated to serve as creative workspaces. As someone from Minnesota, I appreciated the chance to experience these charming hundred-plus-year-old structures—something not often seen in the Midwest!
Snowfarm offers a rich calendar of classes and workshops throughout the year, catering to a diverse range of media and skill levels. Interspersed between these sessions are three distinct residency periods, each lasting one week. Artists can apply for multiple weeks if desired. Residency fees vary depending on the session, housing choice, and length of stay, but do not cover firing costs.
Residents must bring their own materials such as clay and glaze, although some supplies are available for purchase on site. The ceramics facilities are well-equipped, featuring a soda/salt kiln, five electric kilns, three gas kilns, and a raku kiln.
This residency functions more like a focused making retreat—there are no obligations or duties required of residents, although special requests, including assistance with firing, can be accommodated. However, Snowfarm expects residents to be self-sufficient in managing their own studio practice.
This program is ideal for artists who may not work in ceramics full-time but seek a peaceful getaway to concentrate on creating or finishing projects. While a single week may be too short for a full production cycle, it provides a valuable opportunity to explore new ideas, glaze and decorate existing bisqued pieces, or fire a kiln load. The serene surroundings and well-equipped studios, coupled with friendly and welcoming staff, make for an inspiring environment.
I visited during the winter residency session, which was offered for the first time this year. At that time, only a flame working resident was present, highlighting the program’s variety across disciplines. I was impressed by the breadth of classes and workshops Snowfarm offers throughout the year and the range of skill levels they serve. The area also hosts several established ceramicists who often collaborate with Snowfarm as workshop instructors.
