Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture

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The Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture (or School of Art) is a nine week summer artists residency located in Skowhegan, Maine. It is not a traditional school, but rather was founded in 1947 by artists as a retreat for artists.

The school invites applicants to submit artworks as slides, which are then judged by a jury of school governors and artists. During the summer work period, artists are given studios and living accommodations. Sixty-five participants are accepted each year, and are supported by a staff of twenty. A fee of approximately $5000 is asked of the applicants, but scholarships and awards reduce the average paid significantly. More than half of the participants received full scholarships, and only a handful pay the full fee.

Six established artists are resident on the campus, giving studio visits and criticism to the participants. Additionally, six or seven more established artists will come for week-long visits, meeting with the students and giving more lectures. Lectures are the only part of the program open to the public.

The School is unique in that it is one of the only institutions in the United States that teaches the technique of fresco. In addition to teaching fresco, the school has a permanent collection of fresco work done by important contemporary artists. Since 1995, Daniel Boschkov, artist and school governor, has been the fresco instructor.

Even though the school offers instruction in the traditional art of fresco, it is not focused on 'traditional' art forms. The participants are of a thoroughly contemporary bent; video art, computer art, sculpture, painting and everything in between can be found. The school has an up-to-date computer lab, photographic printing facilities, and a sculpture shop.