Moon-Randolph Homestead

At this century-old Missoula ranch turned public historic site, chickens continue to lay eggs in original nesting boxes, pigs range on the open pastures, and elderly trees drop rare varieties of apples from their tangled crowns. The site is named after the Moon and Randolph families who left behind many of the buildings and artifacts visible on the landscape today. Before there were fences and apple trees, and for over ten thousand years, this place has been situated within the vast territories and oral histories of the Séliš-Ql̓ispé people. Resident artists at the Homestead will have the opportunity to explore a rare and layered piece of Montana history.

Moon-Randolph Homestead Website

Situated less than two miles from downtown Missoula, the historic Moon-Randolph Homestead lies within the ancestral homelands of the Séliš-Ql̓ispé (Salish and Pend d'Oreille) people, who have stewarded this landscape for over 14,000 years. The site invites visitors to bear witness to changing human-land relationships across generations, marked by wild American plum groves lining traditional Séliš-Ql̓ispé trails alongside remnants of a century of small-scale agricultural homesteading. Today, preserved as part of Missoula’s public open space, the Homestead bridges Indigenous cultural history, educational outreach, and land stewardship to serve as a living center for historical truth-telling and community connection.

While in residence at the Homestead, artists will have access to:

• A wall tent strictly for use by the artist

• Beautiful grounds, historic buildings, archive library, and artifacts

• Contact with the resident caretakers who have a wealth of knowledge and insight about the site and history of the place

• Close proximity restroom

• Additionally, artists will have modest access to studio facilities at the University of Montana in ceramics, printmaking, and painting.

While the homestead provides a feeling of countryside refuge, it is a short 15-minute drive from downtown Missoula. There is a gravel road that crosses cattleguards to access the homestead. We recommend that artists have a vehicle for this residency.

Cell service is spotty to nonexistent at the homestead. Additionally, while there is a wall tent for the artist's use, this site is closely connected to the elements. Artists may want to access the university's dry studios and the internet to support their practice during this residency.

Missoula is located in a mountain valley at the confluence of three rivers. The town features contemporary museums, independent galleries, a variety of restaurants and grocery stores, and an active downtown anchored by the University of Montana. With riverfront parks, mountain trails, extensive bike paths, and a zero-fare public bus system, visiting artists can easily navigate the city and explore the surrounding region.

Artists coming from out of town will stay at Open AIR’s Blue House—a beautiful, fully furnished residence located in Missoula's vibrant University District, just one mile from downtown. Each artist will have their own bedroom and will share two bathrooms, the kitchen, dining room, living room, backyard, and laundry facilities. Applicants will have the opportunity to share their housing needs in the Artist-in-Residence application.

For more information: About the Blue House

In addition to an artist presentation, the artist could have the opportunity to teach a compensated workshop on-site if interested.

• READ ADDITIONAL FAQ’s document

• Open AIR is committed to accessibility. If the application process or fee poses a barrier,  please reach out to Rachel at program@openairmt.org