Hello and welcome!
We are so excited that you will be in residence on Ryder Farm this season!
Below you’ll find vital information to help you prepare, including our COVID-19 policies, travel directions, what to pack, what to expect during your time onsite, resident requirements while at SPACE, and other helpful details.
It is important that you spend time reading and digesting this entire packet before you arrive.
If you have any questions about its contents, please don’t hesitate to contact SPACE’s Artistic Programs Associate, Nathan Baron Silvern(nathan@spaceonryderfarm.org), or SPACE’s Creative Director, Kate Eminger (kate@spaceonryderfarm.org).
In order to allow our team ample time to prepare for your arrival, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page at least two weeks prior to the start of your residency.
MISSION AND HISTORY
THE HISTORY OF THE LAND
The land now known as Ryder Farm in Brewster, New York was first home to Indigenous peoples known as the Wappingers, whose earliest settlements in what is currently Putnam County date back more than 2,000 years. Archaeological evidence points to the presence of various Indigenous residents in the region up to over 12,000 years ago.
After the arrival of Dutch and English explorers in the 1600s, pandemic and violent conflict brought on by colonization quickly took a devastating toll on the Wappingers. Even when Europeans attempted to “purchase” Wappinger lands, the colonizers’ view of the permanent sale was at odds with that of the Wappingers, who adhered to a model of shared land stewardship, and gift exchanges.
In 1691, two Dutch traders “purchased” the land, which was subsequently sold to Adolph Philipse, a merchant whose property included much of New York’s present-day Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess Counties. During the French and Indian War (1754-1763), many of the Wappingers went to Stockbridge, Massachusetts. They became known thereafter as the Stockbridge Mohicans. Upon returning after the war, they argued that they had been defrauded of their ancestral lands. But the colonialist Provincial Council upheld Philipse’s ownership claim.
In the 1780s, the Stockbridge Mohicans accepted an invitation to live among the Oneida Nation in western New York. However, pressure to remove Native peoples from their lands was strong in New York at the time. Because of this, part of the community was eventually forced to move to Ohio and Indiana before staying in Wisconsin, where they still reside as the Stockbridge Munsee of Shawano County, Wisconsin.
Loyalists to Great Britain during the Revolutionary War, Philipse and his family fled America after the war. Their land was confiscated and divided by the New York Legislature, and eventually sold to immigrant farming families. Eleazer Ryder first began farming the land as a tenant, before ultimately purchasing the property now known as Ryder Farm in 1795.
Today, Ryder Farm is one of the oldest continuously held family farms along the East Coast, and the oldest in Putnam County. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Ryder Farm housed a variety of operations, including a working farm with a general store, a dairy farm, and a leisure farm with a tennis court.
In the late 1970s, the Ryders’ farming tradition was reinvigorated by family member Hall Gibson, followed by Betsey and John Ryder. Under their stewardship, the farm became an early adopter of the burgeoning organic farming movement gaining momentum throughout the United States at the time. (In 1976, Ryder Farm was one of the original participating farms in New York City’s Union Square Greenmarket.)
In 2009, Emily Simoness, an 8th-generation Ryder, became involved with Ryder Farm upon recognizing that her own artistic community could both benefit from and contribute to the long-standing but rapidly aging family farm. In 2011, Emily co-founded SPACE on Ryder Farm with the mission of providing both time and space for artists to develop new work while also contributing to the sustainability and resourceful preservation of Ryder Farm. With the help of an army of inspired artists, volunteers, friends, and family, SPACE was born.
Through the growth of its residency programs, SPACE has helped breathe new life into Ryder Farm by thoughtfully restoring and managing the farm’s historic buildings. Additionally, SPACE invites guests from surrounding communities and New York City for farm-inspired dinners and performance events onsite.
At the end of the 2018 growing season, Betsey Ryder retired after 40 years of cultivating organic vegetables, flowers, and herbs. SPACE officially took on all agricultural operations at the beginning of 2019, and is proud to follow in the footsteps of Ryder Family members and Indigenous farmers who have tended this land in years past.
About SPACE on Ryder Farm
SPACE was established for artists by artists with a simple philosophy: artists need time and space to do what they do best—create. Since our founding in 2011, artists, innovators, and changemakers have come to SPACE to do their most important work.
Through unique residency programs designed to serve artists of all stripes, social activists, nonprofit organizations, and parent-artists with their children, SPACE has welcomed over 1,550 residents; mentored more than 75 young professionals through fellowship and internship programs; and developed a national reputation as one of the most sought-after residency programs in the country. Through our intentional approach to arts and agriculture, SPACE on Ryder Farm provides a place to create, recharge, and commune.
SPACE Values
SPACE firmly believes that equity, inclusion, support, and radical hospitality are not only important to creating art, but also vital in generating dialogue that leads to lasting change. We firmly believe that in all endeavors—from artistic creation, to agriculture, to democracy—what we create and grow is stronger when there are more and different perspectives at the table.
In support of these values and this work, SPACE eliminated financial barriers in 2017 by fully subsidizing all individual residencies, and pledged to award at least 50% of our residency opportunities each year to people of color and other underrepresented voices.
While SPACE has always sought to build a truly inclusive community, the senseless and heartbreaking murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd were painful reminders that we are still very far from living in an antiracist society. The summer of 2020 underscored how vital this work is, and how necessary it is to double down on our commitment to equity, inclusion, and radical hospitality.
SPACE was a less inclusive place in our founding year of 2011 than in 2017, when we made our 50% commitment. Our sincere hope is to be a different, better, and more inclusive place in 2023 than we were in 2017. We must be. While we are a predominantly white institution, we are also a young and nimble one. We can change if we want to change. And we do want to change—our desire is real and authentic. To read more about our journey and the steps we are taking, you can reference our June 2020 statement about antiracism and our October 2020 follow-up statement, as well as our 2021 Strategic Plan. We invite questions, challenges, and criticisms surrounding these steps and how SPACE is continuing this work in 2023 and beyond.
2023 COVID-19 Policies
Vaccination Status
SPACE has prepared extensively for a residency program that is both safe and restorative. We have conducted in-depth peer research, consulted local health officials, and are adhering to federal and state guidelines as we continue to welcome artists to Ryder Farm.
Because residents routinely dine together, work together, and spend time indoors with SPACE team members (who are in turn part of their own communities), minimizing risks associated with COVID-19 requires full participation with straightforward, clear policies. To this end, all residents are required to be fully vaccinated as a condition of attending a 2023 SPACE residency. A similar policy is in effect for SPACE team members and visitors.
SPACE recognizes medical contraindications and closely held religious beliefs may prevent some residents from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Furthermore, SPACE knows that many have not had fair and just access to vaccines and have been disproportionately impacted by the virus, leading to the distrust of government health agencies and hesitancy towards the vaccine itself. Such individuals will be asked to follow a thorough set of safety protocols (including quarantining and PCR testing) before arrival. Additionally, all residents, regardless of vaccination status, will be tested upon arrival.
In order to minimize risk of exposure, residents are not permitted to leave the property during the course of their residency unless in the event of an emergency. This precaution allows residents to form a pod and not mask while in residence.
Please contact Creative Director Kate Eminger at kate@spaceonryderfarm.org with any related questions or concerns, or if you are not up to date on your vaccines.
For more information on COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States and where to get one, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines.html
Ongoing Precautions
In addition to standard housekeeping procedures, SPACE has contracted a local cleaning company that will thoroughly sanitize spaces between each residency.
In the event of an exposure to COVID-19 onsite, residents must self-monitor their symptoms; and SPACE will follow the most up-to-date CDC guidelines for testing and contact tracing.
If someone living onsite has a confirmed case of COVID-19, they will be moved into a designated “quarantine bedroom” with a private bathroom, where they will be isolated for 5 to 10 days (depending on CDC and state guidelines). All meals will be provided during this quarantine period. Residents cannot return to the residency program until they have tested negative. Additionally, other people onsite will adhere to exposure procedures and self-monitor symptoms accordingly.
BEFORE YOUR RESIDENCY
What to Pack
When preparing for your residency at SPACE, keep in mind that during the day, the temperature here in Brewster is generally the same as it is in New York City. Nights can get chilly and the buildings can be drafty, so layers are recommended. For fall residencies, we strongly encourage you to pack warmly.
A suggested packing list:
personal face mask(s)
personal reusable water bottle
house shoes or slippers
bathrobe or similar (bathrooms are communal)
waterproof boots (or similar) that you don’t mind getting muddy
warm clothes for chilly evenings
rain gear
rugged shoes for hiking/walking around
sunglasses and/or hat for sun protection
swimsuit and beach towel (for summer months)
flip-flops (for summer months)
toiletries (toothpaste, shampoo, bath soap, etc.)
electronics chargers and USB adapters
snacks for between meals, and/or alcohol (as desired)
wireless speaker for personal use (as desired)
headphones/earbuds
The following will be provided to you:
bed linens
one waffle towel, one bath towel, one bath sheet
bug spray
sunscreen
hand sanitizer
basic office supplies (pens, Post-its, paper clips, tape, etc.)
Guest and Pet Policy
Overnight guests or day visitors are not allowed during your stay. Although we love animals, we cannot accommodate your pets at SPACE. If you have a service animal, please contact Nathan Baron Silvern, SPACE’s Artistic Programs Associate at nathan@spaceonryderfarm.org
THE BEGINNING OF YOUR RESIDENCY
Travel to Ryder Farm
Residents will travel to the farm by train via Metro North or by private car.
If you plan to take the train from NYC, you will be riding the 9:51 AM off-peak ($15 fare) Harlem Line train from Grand Central Terminal toward Southeast. The trip takes approximately 90 minutes, and Brewster is the second-to-last stop on the line. You must be in one of the first four train cars in order to disembark in Brewster. A SPACE team member will greet you at the entrance of the Brewster train station at 11:15 AM and drive you to Ryder Farm (approximately 7 minutes). We ask that residents please wear masks on public transportation.If you are driving, the best address to plug into your GPS is 406 Starr Ridge Road, Brewster, NY 10509. Look for the white Ryder Farm sign, turn onto our long gravel driveway, and park on the grass lot to your left alongside the other vehicles. A SPACE team member will greet you outside. Please allow time for traffic and plan to arrive no later than 11:30 AM.
Upon arrival, the SPACE team will review farm rules and COVID protocols, as well as give an extensive group tour of the property. A communal lunch will be served before the tour.
DURING YOUR RESIDENCY
Campus
The original Ryder Family homestead, the Sycamores, is a beautifully rustic house dating back to the 18th century. In 2023, the interior of the Sycamores will be used entirely as housing and offices for the SPACE team. However, residents are encouraged to occupy the porches, hammocks, and backyard of the house during your stay.
SPACE’s other housing structure, Kay Hall, was built in 1983 and will serve as resident housing and the hub of your residency. Kay Hall is equipped with bedrooms, communal bathrooms (with showers and hot water), air conditioning, and heat. While inside Kay Hall, you are welcome to be unmasked. When dining outside is not possible, meals are served in Kay Hall’s main room.
SPACE has ample work spaces both indoors and out. There are writing desks in each resident bedroom, and Kay Hall’s large common room is frequently a shared work space amongst artists and the SPACE team. Additionally, residents are invited to work in the Garage, the Barn, and our converted Chicken Coop. If you’d prefer to work outside, there is an outdoor stage on the Bowling Green, an open-air gazebo, Kay Hall’s sun deck, a lakeside dock with a picnic table, and various porches. You are also welcome to wander the farm until you find a nook that catches your eye!
Learn more about our indoor and outdoor workspaces HERE.
Bedrooms
Each private bedroom includes a bed dressed with clean linens (including a duvet, throw blanket, one waffle towel, one bath towel, one bath sheet, two washcloths, and an extra set of sheets), a writing desk, and a desk chair. Each desk has a lamp, as well as some reading materials for your enjoyment. All rooms also have a yoga mat and block, a laundry hamper, an umbrella, bedside alarm clock, multiple outlets, and at least one bedside lamp. All bedrooms can be locked from the inside.
Farm Rules
Quiet hours on Ryder Farm for all indoor residential spaces and outdoor spaces (including the Garage, Barn, Chicken Coop, lakeside dock area, and surrounding grounds) begin at 10:00 PM nightly.
There is absolutely no smoking or vaping in any of the structures on Ryder Farm or on any decks, patios, or porches. You may only smoke or vape outside in a designated area. (You will be shown where the smoking area is during your initial farm tour.) Please dispose of cigarette butts safely.
No open flames are allowed in any of the structures on Ryder Farm. This includes the burning of incense and candles.
No fires are allowed in the fireplaces except when tended to by authorized SPACE team members.
Any furniture and/or household items that reside inside the structures must remain inside. Please treat all furniture and household items with respect.
SPACE vehicles are not available for resident use.
No swimming or canoeing after dark.
Please do not feed the horses or sheep on Ryder Farm. Additionally, please do not enter their designated areas.
SPACE remains a drug-free campus. As New York State continues to implement last year’s Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, we ask that residents refrain from using marijuana in any form while at SPACE.
Wi-Fi and Printing
There is wireless Internet access throughout Kay Hall and the Sycamores. There is no Internet access provided in the Barn, Gazebo, or Chicken Coop. Network IDs and passwords will be posted in each resident bedroom, as well as throughout Kay Hall.
Residents will have daily access to a printer in Kay Hall. However, SPACE strongly believes in reducing waste, and we encourage you to use laptops/tablets in lieu of printing whenever possible.
Ticks and Poison Ivy
Ticks are an unfortunate seasonal reality throughout much of the Northeast, and you may encounter them during your time on the farm. Ticks are likely not to spread disease if they are caught within 36 to 48 hours of attaching themselves to you. To avoid risk, protect yourself daily with tick repellant when spending time outside for an extended period of time. Wear appropriate clothing that covers your arms and legs entirely when spending time in wooded areas or fields. We also strongly recommend checking your body each night for any tick stowaways (we will go over this procedure during your farm tour). Tick repellant and illustrated info sheets will be provided upon arrival, and SPACE teams available should you have questions or concerns during your stay.
Additionally, both poison ivy and poison oak can be found on Ryder Farm. We encourage you to use caution when interacting with plants that look unfamiliar to you, especially along our walking trails or in less-landscaped areas onsite. If you suspect you have come into contact with poison oak or poison ivy, please alert a team member right away and they will help you administer treatment. An info sheet with additional tips can also be found in your bedroom.
MEALS AND FOOD
SPACE’s Food Program
Throughout your residency, food and beverages will be prepared onsite and served in Kay Hall. Communal meals at SPACE provide nourishment, camaraderie, and a sense of structure for each day. We ask that you attend every meal in a timely manner.
Meals are served at the following times:
Breakfast - 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Lunch - 12:00 PM
Dinner - 6:00 PM (when weather permits, dinner is often set up for outdoor dining)
Breakfast options are self-serve, and can be found in Kay Hall’s Resident fridge or on the kitchen counter. Breakfast items will be put away by 10:30 AM.
Lunch options are served buffet-style, and set up on the kitchen counter or directly on the dining room table in Kay Hall’s main room. Lunch items are put away by 1:00 PM.
Dinner is served family-style, and will be set up either outdoors (weather permitting) or on the dining room table in Kay Hall’s main room. SPACE team members may occasionally join residents for dinner.
While there are no printed or pre-set menus, you are very much encouraged to make food requests and provide feedback before or during your time at SPACE.
Residents do not have private kitchen access for cooking, prepping, or assembling personal meals/snacks. You can, however, use the microwave to heat up leftovers any time you’d like. (Leftovers can be found in the Resident fridge, which will be shown to you during your initial group tour.)
SPACE takes all necessary precautions in our kitchens and culinary prep areas when it comes to food safety and sanitation. We regularly monitor updates and guidelines from the CDC, WHO, and ServSafe.
Snacks, Alcohol, and Sweets
While scratch-made desserts are in steady rotation on SPACE menus, please note that we do not serve dessert every day, and we do not serve wine or beer with meals. There is, however, a coffee and tea station in Kay Hall that is maintained throughout each day.
If you'd like to stock up on between-meal snacks or sweets, Instacart and Grubhub offer delivery within the hour to SPACE from area supermarkets and convenience stores. Grubhub offers delivery from a large and varied selection of regional restaurants. Instacart also offers beer, wine, and spirits for delivery.
You will have 24/7 access to a designated Resident pantry area and full-sized Resident fridge to store your personal food and beverages.
If you snack in your rooms, please be mindful of crumbs, open packaging, uncovered wastebaskets, and anything else that might attract flies or other critters. Pest management is a constant battle when living/working on a farm! We work hard to maintain clean and safe living quarters for guests and SPACE team members. Please avoid storing food, candy, or snacks in bedrooms or common areas for this reason.
Food Philosophy
What does "farmhouse cooking" actually mean? Here at SPACE, our culinary ethos is rooted in the following practices:
Plant-forward and pantry-inspired. Lots of vegetables, as often as possible. Our emphasis is on hyper-local produce (from Ryder Farm), as well as sustainability, availability, and seasonality.
Very little to no waste. We continuously repurpose leftovers, and often utilize stems and scraps in our meals before composting.
Practical, not performative. Resident meals at SPACE don't revolve around a chef's ego, trendy ingredients, or what looks good in a photo. We cook for sustenance, nutrient density, fun, and deliciousness.
Radical hospitality at the table and on the plate. We believe in cultivating a sense of abundance and generosity at mealtimes. Servings are always plentiful, and the mood is always welcoming and inclusive.
Food Allergies and Dietary Restrictions
SPACE takes dietary restrictions and food allergies very seriously. While we do frequently serve meats, poultry, and eggs, we are very comfortable with vegetarian and vegan diets. We can also easily accommodate dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free diets.
SPACE is not be able to accommodate individuals with extremely sensitive nut allergies; celiac disease; or any similar instance in which cross-contamination cannot occur because of medical risk. Due to our limited facilities, we cannot offer fully kosher meals.
Residents with severe allergies or other dietary concerns are encouraged to directly contact Min Liao, SPACE's Culinary Director min@spaceonryderfarm.org. She is happy to discuss more complex needs, and will make every attempt to accommodate requests.
THE END OF YOUR RESIDENCY
Departure
On the final day of your residency, lunch will be served after the resident sharing, and all residents must depart no later than 3:00 PM.
You will depart SPACE in the same manner that you arrived. If you drove yourself, please plan on leaving by 3:00 PM. If you traveled via Metro North, a SPACE team member will drive you to the Brewster train station after lunch for the 3:04 PM train arriving in Grand Central around 4:30 PM.