Upcoming Calls for Entry

The Anderson Center’s Winter Retreat program is a short-term residency during the organization’s off-season for artists and writers seeking concentrated creative time for reflection and the advancement of their personal artistic goals. A Winter Retreat at the Anderson Center is a fee-based opportunity for up to four artists at a time to live in community and fellowship while working on their own projects in the inspiring setting of the historic Tower View Estate.

 The Anderson Center is currently accepting applications for sessions of 1 to 4 weeks in duration in January 2027. Arrival takes place between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. each Wednesday and includes a short orientation. Check out is by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays. Spaces are rented on a first come, first serve basis and acceptance is made at the discretion of staff. There is a $30 application fee. Application or participation in a Winter Retreat in no way affects eligibility or selection for other Anderson Center Residency Programs.

 Practicing artists of all backgrounds and at any stage of their career are encouraged to apply. A self-paced Winter Retreat may be a good fit for artists & writers who need time away from daily responsibilities and distractions to focus on a creative project, visual artists needing access to the Anderson Center’s specific studio facilities, or educators seeking focused creative time during a winter break or sabbatical. A Winter Retreat is also an ideal opportunity for collaborating artists to advance a project or work alongside one another at Tower View.

 If you have any questions about Winter Retreats, please contact Program Director Laurel Stinson at 651-388-2009 x4.

RATES, ACCOMMODATIONS, & AMENITIES  The weekly rate for a Winter Retreat at the Anderson Center is $650. A 10% discount is offered to local artists living within Goodhue County, Minnesota. A 50% deposit is due upon acceptance with the balance due at arrival. If you are accepted your $30 application fee will be applied to your deposit. Acceptance or wait list notifications and confirmation of dates will be emailed beginning October 15. Deposits are non-refundable.

 A Winter Retreat in the Historic Tower View Residence includes a private bedroom and a private bathroom, along with access to a fully equipped kitchen, laundry room, living room, dining room, and several common spaces. Bedrooms are equipped with either a king bed, full bed, or twin beds; a desk, a dresser, a large closet, and a comfortable chair.

 Linens and towels are provided. The house is cleaned weekly. Couples are welcome and may share bedroom/studio if desired (weekly rate applies to each person). Children and pets (except for certified service animals) are unable to be accommodated during Winter Retreats.

 The Printmaking Studio (with a Charles Brand-like etching press) is available for Winter Retreats for $150/week. The fee for a 15' x 26' visual art studio in the North Studios complex (with a sink, heater, easels, and tables) is $100/week.

 The Anderson Center does not supply paper or any visual art supplies. Residents are generally expected to bring supplies and tools with them, or have supplies sent to the Center prior to arrival. All Winter Retreat participants should be able and willing to work independently.

 Dancers and choreographers interested in using the Tower View Barn for movement work are encouraged to inquire with staff regarding availability and rates. Musicians and composers interested in utilizing the Tower View Barn (and its Grand Royale piano) are likewise encouraged to make a special request about rates and availability.

 The Anderson Center does not hire a chef for Winter Retreats and no meals or groceries are provided. Participating writers and artists are expected to do their own grocery shopping and their own cooking in the fully equipped kitchen. There are numerous grocery stores, gourmet shops and restaurants nearby.

 Artists are responsible for their own transportation. Given the time of year, Tower View’s location, and that no food is provided, participating artists and writers are required to have their own car with them.

CANCELLATION / REFUND POLICY  Deposits are not refundable.  

VACCINATION and CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY  Prior to arrival, all artists are sent a Retreat Handbook outlining many items related to daily life, including the most current safety policies and protocols. The organization's goal is to balance standard public health policies and clear expectations while also highlighting areas where communication or flexibility within each cohort might be beneficial or needed.

 The Anderson Center Residency Program trusts that artists know what they need most to advance their individual practices and how best to use their time to benefit their own work and reach their own goals. Likewise, artists are empowered to collectively make changes where appropriate and ultimately build the artist community they'd like to see.

 At the same time, and as is outlined in the Retreat Handbook, the Anderson Center is committed to supporting artists by creating a safe space for their residency experience. As such, the organization requires all participating Winter Retreat artists to read and agree to our code of conduct.

 Of course even with all of these precautions, by simply participating in the retreat program with other artists, there is an inherent risk of exposure, even for vaccinated persons, that is beyond the ability of the Anderson Center to control entirely. By applying to this program you are communicating that you are comfortable with that risk. A communicable disease risk acknowledgement and liability waiver is included in the retreat agreement. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY  The Anderson Center provides equal opportunity for all people to participate in and benefit from the activities of the Center, regardless of race, national origin, color, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, in admission, access, or employment. The Anderson Center staff is willing to do what they can to accommodate residents with disabilities. Please call before applying to discuss special needs.