Introduction
The Outer Cape Artists in Residence Consortium (OCARC) was founded in 1995 in response to a request by the Cape Cod National Seashore (Seashore) to establish a residency program in one of its historic dune shacks at the edge of the Atlantic “back shore” in Provincetown. It offers the artist the creative stimulation that isolation and solitude provide. In the summer of 1995, OCARC was awarded the Margo-Gelb shack by the Seashore, with the first residencies being held in 1996.The Program
Six residencies are awarded each year during the season of mid-May – mid-October. The first residencies included a writer, a photographer, a sculptor, two painters and a painter-poet. Since then the residencies have been of a similar mix.Writers and Artists (artists may include painters, sculptors, photographers, printmakers, musicians, etc.) may apply for a two-week residency. Any practicing artist may apply; however priority for consideration for a residency will be given to applicants who are a Former Fellow of FAWC, a member of PAAM, or a member of Castle Hill. Those who have never participated in the program will have priority over those who have already had this opportunity.
Those who are awarded residencies will receive a two-week stay in the dunes. The dates available are for two week periods, starting and ending on Saturday:
May 20--June 3 User fee $475
June 17- July 1 User fee $750
July 15-July 29 User fee $750 Fees are higher during the "high" summer season.
August 12-August 26 User fee $750
September 09-September 23 User fee $550
September 30—October 14 User fee $400
Applications are due March 15, 2017 and the residencies are awarded shortly after, as the full season’s schedule is set at that time.
As an element of OCARC’s agreement with the National Park Service, participants are requested to develop a means of sharing their dune shack experience with a broader audience, such as through an exhibition, reading, workshop, demonstration, or exhibit. Participants should discuss their ideas for programs and venues with OCARC
Living in a Shack
The Margo-Gelb shack, which was once owned by painter Boris Margo and his wife, printmaker Jan Gelb, sits on a high dune overlooking the ocean. It has views on all directions. The one room shack is about 14 feet by 12 feet in size, with an environmentally friendly, composting outhouse nearby. The shack has two single beds, a work-dining table, sink, gas burners, a gas refrigerator, and cooking/eating utensils. There is no wood stove or other source of heat. A hand pump for water is located about 100 feet from the shack (NOTE: this is good drinking water and is tested every year.) There is a clothesline near the shack for hanging wash.Mattresses, pillows and blankets are provided. Residents must supply towels, sheets, sleeping bags (if desired), and whatever food, art supplies and clothing they need. The National Park Service doesn't allow pets.
PHT maintains the shack and provides transportation in and out of the dunes at the beginning and end of the stay. The town of Provincetown is within walking distance, about two miles away. Because of severe erosion along the shore, the path down to the beach is somewhat longer and less direct than previously. Signs directing foot traffic are posted.