“Since the 1940s, Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture has provided emerging artists with the opportunity to work alongside notable and established artists of the day in an immersive and intensive, 9-week summer residency program. This rich, creative history has shaped the landscape of Skowhegan. The energy is palpable and electric, and it infiltrates all aspects of resident life there. The general atmosphere is one of generosity and kindness, and the conversations I had with my fellow participants affected me deeply. I learned that engaging with our creative communities is a vital part of creative life and we, as members of those communities, have a responsibility to maintain and care for them. It is our responsibility to create open platforms for a broad spectrum of conversation and experience. I was given the time and space to dive deeper into my own artistic practice and uncover new avenues of thought and inquiry. I will carry this experience with me for years to come.” - Taylor Loftin