The MacGown Art Retreat and Studio (MARS),  established by Joe and Joseph MacGown, offers a rich creative backdrop for visiting artists, writers, musicians, scientists, and others. MARS is located at 211 Sessums Road, Starkville, MS (10 miles from the MSU campus) and rests upon a Cretaceous based Black Belt Prairie remnant.

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The MARS compound including the studio, cabin, art house, and gallery is open for visits by appointment only on most weekday and Sunday afternoons from 1 to 6 pm. Visits can be scheduled by contacting Joe MacGown at art@joemacgown.com or by text at 662-418-5286.

The MacGown's art styles are unique and they have exhibited their artwork in numerous local, regional, national, and international exhibitions. Most recently, the MacGowns have established an artist in residence program. Residencies vary with some artists receiving stipends to others being provided free housing in exchange for work. Stipends for the residency is supported in part by the Del Rendon Foundation, the Mississippi Arts Commission, and various private sponsors. 

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For more information about how to apply as an Artist in Residence at MARS, please visit our RESIDENCY PROGRAM page and read over the application [PDF].  ​

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