Of Water, Land, & Sky is an artist residency program connecting artists with conservation efforts to promote unique dialogue and collaboration between arts and ecology.

We're thrilled to announce that in 2026 we will be supporting 3 artist residencies.

Artist Expectations

Artists who participate in the residency will be expected to engage for a full seasonal cycle (one year). This can take shape in many different ways but the idea is that artists engage with the land at Willow Creek Preserve in Sheboygan, observing and learning from the land along with the changing of seasons. At the beginning of the residency, the Of Water, Land, and Sky team, artists and conservation partners will meet to learn more about each other's work. This will be a conversation that ideally helps shape the artist's work and any potential collaborations while in residency. At this time you will be introduced to the land, and ongoing conservation efforts by Glacial Lakes Conservancy staff, and are encouraged to engage with staff throughout your residency.

Throughout the residency duration we will be in communication as to the artist's progress, as well as share any updates happening at the relevant preserve with artists.

We will organize an exhibition, performance or appropriate opportunity to share work created while in residence once you complete your residency. The best outlet, dates and times, will be defined and arranged as your residency progresses.

Artists are expected to participate in one community engagement moment with Glacial Lakes supporters. This could look like an in progress work, or sharing about your time spent with Glacial Lakes.

Eligible
All artists, writers, musicians, performance artists, or other creative practices.

Requirements
Any artist working in any medium, digital or analog, including writing of any type, and performance art of any type are accepted. Any site-specific work involving changes to the landscape is generally not permitted. Exceptions may be considered, but must have approval.

Funds
The artist stipend of $500 may be used in any way the artist chooses, and is paid half at the beginning of residency, and half at a 6 month check-in. Residents are responsible to organize their own travel, and food related to the residency.

Lodging
The lodging is a fully furnished apartment. One bedroom, one bath, with a kitchen and living room on the second floor of our home. Street parking is readily accessible in front of the house. Each residency includes six days of lodging, and can used used in one stay, or split over multiple visits.

Documentation
Artists will be documented during their residency. Documentation will be used to share the residency experience with GLC, and OWLSKY constituents/followers. You will be expected to complete a short interview about your experience at the end of your residency.

Willow Creek
The property includes 143 acres of undeveloped land positioned west of Taylor Drive, between Indiana Avenue and Erie Avenue. Willow Creek traverses this property and is a tributary to the Sheboygan River Area of Concern. This prominent feature has given rise to the name Willow Creek Preserve.

GLC’s intention is to protect and restore this property's ecological value and to allow passive recreation for public enjoyment. Currently, there are footpath trails that exist as remnants of old farm access paths. These trails will be loosely maintained to support gentle exploration of the various habitats and wildlife that can be found here.

Learn more about Willow Creek.
https://www.glaciallakes.org/willow-creek-preserve.html

APPLY

Application period closed for 2026.