Orchard Keeper Writers Residency

Orchard Keeper Writers Residency is currently accepting applications for one- and two-week residencies from March through December 2023. Residencies are awarded on a rolling basis. Apply today.

2018 feb 22 - sunset at farm

The Orchard Keeper Writers Residency provides short-term housing for writers and artists on a rustic East Tennessee farm.  The residential space sits in the middle of an aging orchard, carved from the middle of 80 acres of cattle pastures and woodland. There are few distractions besides the call to walk in the woods. However, we’re located only ten miles away from Lincoln Memorial University as well as the town of Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, and the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

Residents are housed in a refurbished trailer home. These guest quarters accommodate one writer or artist at a time. This space has recently been completely remodeled and feels rather new. The quarters are spartan but clean and climate controlled. There is running water including a private bath with a shower and bathtub. There is a small kitchen, and guests are responsible for providing and preparing their own food. There is no internet/wi-fi, but cell service is accessible. Residents are responsible for their own transportation.

This dedicated time is intended to give writers the space and freedom to work in a rural, scenic location.

If you wonder how much writing
you could accomplish with some time to yourself,
read Ruth Goring’s blog post about her week
as an Orchard Keeper Writers Resident.

The Orchard is a place of inclusivity. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds. We particularly welcome applicants of all races, colors, religions, sexual orientations and gender identities.

Residencies are open to writers of all genres and artists who are at least 21 years of age. Applications are currently being accepted for one-week and two-week sessions. Residency fees are $25.00 per day.

To apply, please email 1) a letter of introduction that includes a description of your current writing project, 2) contact information (including phone and email) for yourself and three references and 3) three proposed time periods for your residency (we are currently booking for the months December 2021; OKWR is on hiatus during January and February). A formal curriculum vita is welcome but optional. There is no application fee.

Submit applications to OrchardKeeper.WritersResidency [AT] gmail [DOT] com.

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