Wild Clay Workshop & Wilderness Arts Residency

Each summer the Visitor Center Artist Camp hosts one group of Resident Artists from around the country for two weeks of camping, living cooperatively outdoors, working, playing, reflecting, and making art in conversation with the North Woods wilderness.

The Wild Clay Workshop will lead residents through the entire process from prospecting for clay, through all the processes of harvesting and mixing and making, and finally through various firing processes. This workshop is taught by professional wild clay hunter and co-founder of VCAC, Amy Joy Hosterman, with assistance from fellow ceramicist Caitlin Zachow.

Independent Projects Artists in Residence will have time and space to explore nature and work on their own independent art mediums. Artist and art educator Stephanie Howells and local UP geologist and artist Evan Lanese are on staff to support Independent Residents, providing guidance as needed, access to tools, and connections to resources.

VCAC runs on community. We are artists, makers, collectors, explorers, campers, canners, caretakers, and nerds for the earth!

Wilderness Artist Residency & Wild Clay Workshop

Sat July 25th - Sat August 8th 2026

Wild Clay Workshop $1100

Independent Project Residency $900

Early Bird Pricing: Apply by March 1st for $150 discount off your fee!

• Includes: Shared studio space, 3 meals a day served, maintained campgrounds, outdoor shower & bathroom facilities, trips to waterfalls and Lake Superior beach, and other optional programming. All materials, firings, and tools provided for Wild Clay Workshop. All Residents have access to basic shop tools and supplies. Accommodations details on our website at: www.visitorcenterartistcamp.org/accommodations

• Adults of all creative backgrounds, experience levels, and fields of practice are encouraged to apply. Wild Clay Workshop intended for those with some experience in clay.
• Space is limited! We have space for only 12 total participants. Submissions will be reviewed in the order received.

Questions? Contact Amy at visitor.center.artists@gmail.com

Deadline to Apply: May 1st

(Ongoing deadline, applications reviewed in order received)

Interview to follow application submission

We are professional artists and educators who come together once a year at the VCAC - in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, nestled between rural townships and the Ottawa National Forest.