Dorland Mountain Arts
Residency Program
Dorland Mountain Arts Residency offers artists, writers, musicians, and creatives the gift of focused time in a peaceful and inspiring environment. Nestled on 300 acres of protected chaparral in Southern California’s Temecula Valley, Dorland is a retreat for those seeking solitude, renewal, and deep creative work.
Private Cottages
Each resident enjoys a private, fully furnished cottage with a kitchen, bathroom, Wi-Fi, and dedicated studio or workspace.
Flexible Stays
Residencies typically last between 1 and 6 weeks. There are no application or reservation deadlines, but advanced bookings are recommended.
Quiet, Natural Setting
Dorland is committed to preserving silence and solitude. Residents are immersed in nature with access to walking trails, mountain views, and wildlife.
Affordable Fees
Residency fees are kept modest to remain accessible.
Creative Freedom
There are no required projects, exhibitions, or public presentations. You’re free to focus fully on your work without interruption.
Optional Community
While the emphasis is on solitude, occasional gatherings or informal check-ins are available for those who seek connection.
What Dorland Residents Say
Laura Bensick
Writer
"The peace, quiet, and beauty of Dorland is the perfect place for the mind to be creative. I would cap off each day of writing with a walk to watch the sunset. There's nowhere else I'd rather work on my novel."
Andromeda Romano-Lax
Writer
"This completely peaceful, distraction-free time was what I needed to get back into the mind space to work on this novel again. It was a great retreat! "
Rabbi Elliot Kukla
Writer
"I got so much done in my week here! A dense chapter of my book, a short essay, as well as a lot of research and contemplation for future chapters. Thank you so much for this gift of space and time!"
Jeri Frederickson
Writer
"I loved walking the trails. Thank you for having so much available to make a novie hiker feel capable! I really fell into a rythm of hiking, watching nature, then creating. This has been so helpful to reset my creative practice and to continue projects I haven't touched in awhile."
Becoming a Dorland Resident
Who Should Apply
Dorland welcomes dedicated, self-directed creatives in all disciplines:
• Visual artists
• Writers
• Musicians and composers
• Interdisciplinary and performing artists
Residents must be comfortable working independently in a quiet, rural setting. Emerging and established artists are equally encouraged to apply. 21 and over only please.
Application Process
Application Deadlines
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to early submissions. Availability is limited and competitive.
What You’ll Submit
1. Completed online application
2. Artist bio and a photo
3. Work samples (writing, portfolio, or audio/video clips)
4. Two professional or academic references who are willing to write a letter of reference on your behalf.
5. Application fee
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by a rotating panel of artists and staff. Selection is based on the quality of work, clarity of purpose, and compatibility with Dorland’s mission.
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