Mesa Refuge is a sacred writing space. It’s a place of drift, of telling details, on the edge of consciousness and civilization, where my true inner self can emerge.

MARGARET JUHAE LEE, AUTHOR OF STARRY FIELD | ALUM 2023

Being in such a spacious and picturesque environment gave me the quiet and psychic space to reflect, recharge, and allow ideas to find me—ideas that later rooted themselves in the work.

BRYANT TERRY, AUTHOR OF BLACK FOOD | ALUM 2008 & 2009

 

Comfortable armchair by a window with views of lush gardens and the estuary.

Mesa Refuge played a critical role in my transition from nonprofit executive to author—helping me find my voice when I needed it most. Mesa’s grassroots orientation makes it a rare jewel among residencies.

HEATHER MCGHEE, AUTHOR OF THE SUM OF US | ALUM 2017

We were told we would get more writing done than we anticipated. I didn’t believe it…and then there I was, two days before the end of my residency, with a full first draft of my book.

JULIAN BRAVE NOISECAT, AUTHOR OF WE SURVIVED THE NIGHT | ALUM 2024