The Mastheads is a writers residency and public humanities project in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. We seek to support the production of new creative work, connect residents to the literary history of the region, and create a forum for thinking about place.
Founded in 2016 upon the legacy of five American Renaissance authors who wrote in Pittsfield, The Mastheads is at once an urban architectural experiment, a literary research initiative, a writers’ residency, and an educational program.
Our projects include 5 mobile writing studios, a writers' residency, a public lecture series, educational programming, publication, and design.
THE MASTHEADS 2023 SUMMER RESIDENCY WILL RUN FOR THREE WEEKS, FROM JULY 12 - August 2, AT HERMAN MELVILLE'S ARROWHEAD IN PITTSFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS.
Five writers across disciplines (poetry, fiction, non-fiction, translation, playwriting, comics, and more) are awarded residencies.
HOUSING & TRANSPORTATION
- Residents receive a $750 stipend as well as reimbursement for travel to and from Pittsfield.
- Residents 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.
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 at Arrowhead for resident use.
PUBLIC EVENTS
- Residency Kickoff: An evening of art & celebration downtown!
- The House: A discussion of the evolving concept of the house through the eyes of 5 pairs of women writers and architects, using the object of the stair as a central thread.
- Moby Dick Marathon & Final Reading: After taking part in Herman Melville’s birthday party on August 1, writers will give a short reading of the work they completed during their stay and celebrate with the community.
To apply, 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. Please note length and formatting requirements below.