Summer 2025 Writers-in-Residence

Matt Broaddus

Justine Gelfman

Lily Goldberg

Sylvia Jones

Sofi Thanhauser

About the Summer Residency

Five writers across disciplines (poetry, fiction, non-fiction, translation, playwriting, comics, and more) are awarded residencies.

Studios

The studios are rustic and open air; each one is the architectural interpretation of the original structure from which one of five American Renaissance authors wrote while in the Berkshires. Studios include a built-in desk, bench, and chair, and are each equipped with a rechargeable, portable electric outlet. Restrooms and a small kitchen are available for resident use in Melville’s barn at Arrowhead.

Stipend, Travel, and Housing

Residents receive a $750 stipend as well as reimbursement for travel to and from Pittsfield. They will reside in the Eugene House——a historic, newly-renovated farmhouse directly across the street from Arrowhead. The house includes 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen, dining room, living room, and library. For exploration further afield, Pittsfield has local ride share options, or we recommend bringing a car.

2025 Public Events

BOOKSTORE READING, Thursday, July 17, 7:00, The Bookstore in Lenox

Summer residents will read from their work. Featuring poets Matt Broaddus & Sylvia Jones, experimental playwright Justine Gelfman, fiction writer Lily Goldberg, and multimedia artist & writer Sofi Thanhauser. Followed by drinks and conversation.

LANTERN PARTY, Thursday, July 31, 7:00, Herman Melville's Arrowhead, Holmes Road in Pittsfield

BYO Picnic on the lawn of Melville's barn for a literary showcase of the work created in The Mastheads studios this summer. Special book table pop-up by Familiar Trees. lanterns for evening strolls to the studios, complimentary beverages & Island Creek Oysters.

How to Apply

Applications open in February for each coming summer. Please read all residency details before applying! Create or sign in with your Submittable account and submit a single document containing: a Letter of Intent, a 10-Page Writing Sample, and a CV. Note length and formatting requirements.