Arts Amongst Arbor: An Artist Residency

Channeling creativity through nature

Arts Amongst Arbor is an artist-in-residence program at Susquehanna University, where the development of student artists converges with the professional art world. This dynamic program invites established and emerging artists, musicians, performers and writers to live, create and teach on campus for a month — inspiring our community while affording the artists time and space to expand their horizons. 

Significantly enhancing its impact, the program leverages a natural environment to foster creativity by providing a tranquil backdrop for both artists and students. Located in the serene river valley, the Martin Retreat Center’s 54 acres of trees, hills, a large pond and surrounding woodlands offer an immersive and enriching setting. 

Value of Hosting an Artist in Residence

The diverse talents and backgrounds of teaching artists participating in Arts Amongst Arbor encourage students to envision their future possibilities. Accomplished artists from television, film, graphic design, music, new media, theatre, creative writing and publishing share their experiences, heightening our vibrant cultural and academic experiences. 

As these teaching artists immerse themselves in our idyllic campus, they become part of the Susquehanna University family. Just as students, faculty and the neighboring community benefit from the artists’ presence, the artists themselves gain exposure to fresh ideas and new approaches they might not have encountered otherwise. This synergy creates a harmonious blend of creativity and cultural exchange, sparking a vibrant celebration of the arts across various disciplines. The artist-in-residence program provides: 

• Professional development and exposure: Working alongside professionals exposes students to diverse and evolving career paths of artists and provides networking opportunities. Students gain firsthand insight into the daily life, work ethic, challenges and creative processes of artists, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Understanding the business side of being an artist — from marketing and exhibition to grant writing and portfolio development — equips students with tools they need to succeed. 
• Enhanced learning: Artists-in-residence introduce new techniques and innovative methods beyond standard curricula, enriching students’ understanding of art and the business of art.
• Mentorship: Students receive personalized guidance, critique and encouragement from experienced professionals, helping them refine their skills and develop their artistic voices with greater confidence and determination.
• Cultural enrichment: Hosting diverse artists from different backgrounds and cultures exposes students to a range of artistic traditions and viewpoints, fostering empathy and global understanding.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: The program promotes cross-disciplinary projects, blending art with natural sciences, technology, business, humanities and social sciences for a holistic educational environment.
• Community engagement: Public lectures, workshops, exhibitions and performances open to students, faculty and the public create a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, fostering a sense of community and shared appreciation for the arts.
• Legacy: The works created by artists-in-residence leave a legacy, inspiring future generations and showcasing the institution’s commitment to the arts.

Special thanks to the Rev. Dr. Lois D. ’90 and Dr. Thomas J. Martin, M.D. for their gift of land to help create the Martin Retreat Center, a property which serves as an inspirational place for students and faculty of varying fields to study and draw inspiration from the natural world.