The Artist in Residence Program at Pond Farm is administered by Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods in partnership with California State Parks. The program welcomes artists working across a wide range of visual, literary, and performance-based disciplines, including interdisciplinary practices. Artists from diverse cultural backgrounds, lived experiences, and artistic perspectives are encouraged to apply.

Situated within the Austin Creek State Recreation Area and adjacent to the iconic Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, the residency provides a unique opportunity for creative exploration in a rural, rustic setting. Removed from the demands and distractions of daily life, residents are invited to engage deeply with their practice while honoring the site’s historical and environmental significance.

In addition to access to more than 6,000 acres of Austin Creek State Recreation Area, residents may explore the surrounding natural landscape, including Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, the Russian River, and the northern California coastal range. Each residency spans three weeks, with six sessions offered between May and September. October is reserved for a special international exchange in partnership with Kunststiftung Sachsen-Anhalt, a contemporary arts foundation based in Germany.

Pond Farm was established as an artists’ community in the late 1940s and was home to internationally recognized studio potter Marguerite Wildenhain, who lived, worked, and taught there for more than forty years. After becoming the first female master potter and teaching ceramics in Germany and the Netherlands, Wildenhain emigrated to the United States to escape Nazi persecution, arriving at Pond Farm in 1942. Her work and pedagogy played a pivotal role in shaping the American Studio Pottery movement.

To preserve the historic integrity of Pond Farm, certain limitations apply. Clay artists are not eligible to apply, as the historic barn does not support ceramic production; throwing wheels and kiln facilities are not available. The program is open only to artists who have not previously participated in the Pond Farm Artist in Residence program. Pets and overnight guests are not permitted. Guests must arrive in their own car (motor vehicle).
Bicycles and alternative transport are not sufficient due to access and distance.

The Pond Farm property is periodically open to the public for group and school tours. During these times, visitors may be present on the grounds; however, the interior of the residence remains private to the artist. Occasional visits by State Parks staff, maintenance personnel, or utility vendors may also occur.