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Ragdale
Lake Forest, IL, United States
4.0(1)
About
Located on architect Howard Van Doren Shaw's 1897 country estate at the edge of an 80-acre Illinois prairie, Ragdale has been an artist community since 1976. The program offers 18-day residencies to about 15 artists per session with chef-prepared weekday dinners, access to an 80-acre nature preserve, and a flexible income-based fee structure ranging from $35 to $250 per day so that no artist is priced out. Eleven named fellowships annually include a $1,000+ stipend and waived residency fee. Application deadline is May 1 each year for the following year's sessions.
Open Calls
Ratings
4.0
Excellent
1 review
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Reviews
C
Chris Patel
Attended 2023 · February 26, 2026
A genuinely warm community in a beautiful prairie setting
Ragdale has a reputation for being one of the friendliest residencies, and that reputation is earned. The house is comfortable, the studios are workable (they vary in size and quality — request your preferences), and the 55-acre prairie is stunning. The Chicago location means you're not totally cut off from city life, which is useful or distracting depending on your temperament. The fee is modest and financial aid is available.
Pros
Warm, inclusive community, affordable fee with financial aid, great location near Chicago
Cons
Studios vary significantly in size and quality. Can feel suburban rather than truly remote.