BAR HARBOR, MAINE – The Artist-in-Residence Program at Acadia National Park will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2023 by waiving its application fee and creating more opportunities for local artists, including a new spot dedicated to a young artist enrolled at an area high school.

More than 50 sites across the National Park Service host artists in residence programs, which vary greatly in program emphasis and operations. At Acadia, artists are asked to create fresh and interesting new ways for visitors to experience the park through the arts.

In exchange for 14 nights in park-provided housing, participants host a public outreach activity with visitors, and donate a finished work of art based on their experience. Pieces donated to the program collection are included in an online catalog on the park website and displayed seasonally in public spaces.

2018 Artist in Residence Sue Charles carefully adds paint to her painting at Schoodic Peninsula in Acadia National Park. (Photo by Ashley L. Conti/Friends of Acadia/NPS)

As many as 12 residency opportunities are available in three categories: visual art, writing, and at-large, which includes such disciplines as music, dance, indigenous arts, and emerging technologies.

For 2023, the program is expanding and formalizing “Resident Artist” opportunities for applicants who have a home or vacation property within commuting distance of the park. These residencies are not limited to a 14-day period and are intended to offer local artists a chance to explore their relationship with Acadia more fully.

Applications will be accepted online through Sept. 30, 2022. Find details at go.nps.gov/AcadiaArt.