Sometimes you need to see it to believe it. These documentaries, video series, and free online courses offer a window into residency life, creative process, and practical professional development.
Popular Films
Lonely Planet — Netflix
A reclusive novelist arrives at a writer’s retreat in Morocco, hoping the remote setting will unlock her writer’s block. While there, she meets a young man — what starts as an acquaintanceship evolves into an intoxicating, life-altering love affair.
Documentaries & Series
MacDowell: Living at the Colony — PBS
NHPBS documentary exploring daily life at MacDowell — the studios, the routines, and how the residency's environment nurtures creative work. If you've ever wondered what a residency actually feels like day-to-day, start here.
The Art Assignment — PBS Digital Studios / YouTube
Sarah Urist Green's acclaimed series demystifying contemporary art. The "Case For" episodes and artist profiles are essential viewing — they'll broaden your understanding of what art can be and give you language for talking about your own work.
Skowhegan School: 75 Years of Artist Community — Skowhegan School of Painting & Sculpture
Alumni and faculty reflect on Skowhegan's legendary 9-week summer intensive — video messages and archival material from 75+ years of the program. A rare inside look at one of the most respected residencies in the country.
Free Courses
Creative Capital: Artist Lab — Creative Capital
Free online professional development for artists — courses on grant writing, financial planning, taxes, artist statements, and career strategy. Each course is self-paced and designed specifically for working artists. The taxes and financial planning courses alone are worth your time.
Know of a video, documentary, or course that should be on this list? Let us know.