Grand Valley filmmaker wins residency in Porkies

A Grand Valley State University professor in the School of Communications has been selected by the Department of Natural Resources as one of 12 artists to participate in the newly expanded Artist-in-Residence program (AIRP) at the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, in Ontonagon, Michigan.

Deanna Morse, an animation artist who came to Grand Valley in 1979, currently serves as vice president of the Association Internationale du Film d’Animation, and in 2005 received the YWCA Tribute Award in Grand Rapids.

The AIRP offers writers, composers and all visual and performance artists an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Porcupine Mountains and to express it through their art forms.

“I’m honored to be selected for this residency opportunity,” said Morse. “Much of my recent film work examines nature through the lens of time. Having an extended period in a wilderness experience will allow me to explore, reflect and consider the elements that are distinctive about this natural landscape.”

Each artist will be given the use of a rustic cabin, located on the Little Union River to live in and explore the park's 60,000 acres of natural beauty, ranging from stunning vistas to 90 miles of rugged backcountry trails. During their residency, each will share their experience with the public through demonstrations or talks. In addition, each artist is required to contribute an art piece representative of his or her stay to the "Friends of the Porkies" permanent collection.

The Artist-in Residence Program is sponsored by the "Friends of the Porkies," a 501(C)(3) non-profit volunteer organization that works to support and promote the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The AIRP is one of several projects undertaken by the Friends group. Membership fees and private donations fund this project.

Contact Deanna Morse at [email protected]. Questions regarding the program should be directed to Sherri McCabe at [email protected].