The Villa Barr Experience

Discover your creative haven in Michigan! Villa Barr is located on four acres of landscaped grounds in the countryside outside of Detroit, Michigan. This property was sculptor David Barr’s dream house and studio, and residents enjoy access to a private studio equipped with wood and metal working tools. Visiting artists also enjoy the use of the beautiful architect-designed home. The home consists of a ground level with four bedrooms and two bathrooms, and a skylit, lofted upper level of open-concept living space with an office, kitchen, and large living/dining area with a grand piano. The upper level of the house is only accessible via a spiral staircase.

There are two private studio spaces and one shared studio space at Villa Barr. Visiting artists will use the home studio attached to the main dwelling. It houses worktables, storage and a sink with easy access to the main shared studio that contains woodworking equipment with high ceilings and plenty of natural light. Local artists work out of the separate outbuilding that contains metal-working tools and an open, heated workspace with lofted ceilings and a large window that overlooks the grounds.

We run three residency sections each year, Spring, Summer, and Fall. We accept two artists each section, one Visiting Artist who resides in the home, and one Local Artist who has access to the studio. Each artist is provided with a private studio space in addition to the main shared studio. Residents are each awarded a $500 materials stipend. Visiting artists are additionally awarded a $500 travel stipend.

Residency dates are:

March- May 2026

June-August 2026

Sept-Nov 2026

You may propose to spend less time, but not more.

For more information, please visit cityofnovi.org/villabarr

Application Requirements

How to Apply

You’ll need to prepare a portfolio of up to 10 works, a brief artist bio, an artist statement, and a project proposal.

Strong project proposals state a clear vision for how you will engage with the public. Your public engagement could take many forms, including hands on workshops, exhibitions, demonstrations, performances, or permanent or temporary installation-based projects suitable for display in a public park. Great proposals additionally engage with Villa Barr Art Park grounds, gardens, history, or studio in thoughtful and creative ways that will also bring the public out to see what you are up to.

Eligibility Criteria

Must be 18 years of age.