Frequently Asked Questions

Questions and answers specific to Summer Workshops, Square ONE, and Open Studio Residency are available on the program pages.

Participants accepted into our summer programs will be provided with a Participant Guide that contains all of the basic information that individuals need to know for when they attend Haystack. The document details items you will need to bring—from clothing items to studio supplies, suggestions, and more.

The Haystack store typically maintains an inventory of supplies basic to most workshops.

When programs are in session, if particular or unusual supplies are needed for your work, we advise that you to bring these with you, as we are located far from major supply sources. A list of special items to be brought from home will be given to participants in workshops that require more than simple, basic supplies.

The store also has a stock of drugstore items, stationery, selected craft books, clothing, snacks, refreshments, small necessities, and miscellany. There is no artwork for sale in the store.

Typically when programs are in session, guests of participants are welcome to visit the campus, but because of limited facilities, we are unable to accommodate overnight guests. Space permitting and with advance notice to the kitchen, we can occasionally accommodate guests at dinner for a fee. Please check with the office if you would like to have a guest visit for a meal.

Internet service on campus is limited. There is internet access in the library. Participants are encouraged to bring their own computers to the library to connect to the internet.

Having a car is helpful depending on your needs. Our campus is very secluded and there are no stores within walking distance. When programs are in session many students get by just fine for two weeks without a car—you can get essentials at the campus store or easily catch a ride into town with someone who has a car if you need something that we do not have available on campus.

The majority of our faculty are invited to teach based on invitation, however, we do accept inquiries from those interested in making teaching proposals. While Haystack will review all submissions, we cannot realistically accommodate every proposal given prior commitments, interest in the school, and our desire to develop diverse programming.

Teaching proposals are submitted through this application. The application will detail all of the materials we will need from you. Haystack will review proposals on a quarterly basis and if we need additional information we will contact you directly. All proposals will be kept on file for three years.

Haystack is located in Deer Isle, Maine, approximately 250 miles north of Boston.

The closest airport is Bangor (BGR). From Bangor it is about a 1 ½ hour drive to Deer Isle.

No, we do not have a gallery. If you wish to purchase artwork made at Haystack you may do so during one of our session auctions.

Haystack has limited youth programming, primarily for local high school students. A list of the community youth programs is available on the Community Programs page.

Additionally, Haystack’s Fab Lab works frequently within the local school system and around the broader Blue Hill Peninsula by integrating digital technology and design proficiency into area classrooms.

Participants must be 18-years old to attend the summer workshop sessions and 21-years old to attend the Open Studio Residency.

Haystack also offers guided, weekly tours to the public every Wednesday afternoon at 2pm throughout the summer (June-August). Advance registration for tours is required.

For a full schedule of Haystack’s public programs, please visit the Visit page.

No. Pets are not allowed on campus–service dogs are welcome.

Yes, but like internet service, cell service on campus is limited. Some carriers get better reception than others. Use of cell phones is discouraged in the studios, cabins, dining hall, or on the decks. There are designated areas for cell phone use.

No. Haystack does not have a dock or mooring for visitors or program participants to safely arrive by boat.

Still have questions?

Please feel free to contact Haystack. Haystack staff is available Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm EST.