Finding Fairyland

The only problem with finding Fairyland and living there for over two weeks is that I must leave this magical place. My life is forever changed from this experience, and it will have an impact on my creativity going forward. So how did I find this magical land and how can you create a similar experience?

If you have been following my social posts, you know that I recently returned from an artist residency at Chateau Orquevaux in France. Emails, questions and even photos didn’t prepare me for the time, experiences and connections I found. The family we created with all of the artists, the memories we made, the creative processes we shared, the laughs, the play, the fun; will be with me forever. We were pampered in the most beautiful surroundings and encouraged to explore, experiment and play. The best summer camp for adults.

I am often asked what an artist’s residency is, and they are as varied as the types of art that are made. I have participated in several residencies around the globe and they are all completely different. I also know people who set up their own self-directed residencies. An artist residency is time set apart from your daily routine where you can focus on your art, which may be painting, writing, music or any other art form.

Not all residencies are created equal, and some will pay you a stipend and cover all costs, others charge fees. The ones that pay you are the most competitive. Others cost money but they pamper you and then the middle ground are ones that provide bare essentials, and you do the rest. We participated in a residency last year in southern Italy and it was a vastly dissimilar experience than the one I just returned from. The lodging was basic, you were on your own for food, but we did go to incredible sites that were inspiring and are still with me today. For me, the biggest difference was the lack of communication between artists due to language barriers. The local Italian artists didn’t share studios, lodging, or meals with us and when we did get together there wasn’t anyone to help with translations. In retrospect there were connections made with some people and the land is still influencing me today. I found an opening to an ancient place, and I will return there to deepen my connection.

A different residency I did was more like a self-directed one because the group component was missing. I have explored various residencies that interest me, but they may be very isolated, some are for months, and I can’t get away for that length of time, and others are worth pursuing. Just because you apply doesn’t mean you will get in, so look at a few. Do your research and set your parameters for time, cost and what type of interaction you are looking for. There is a group of us that are looking to put together our own residency in a particular location in Spain where we will explore ancient caves and the Indigenous art and sound healing.

I have approached residencies with a particular project in mind, but I have also used the time to let things percolate and see what arises. They all have their purposes. What is right

for you? For me, the best experience was something that surprised me. I usually spend most time alone, either painting or writing or hiking. I loved the connections with such a diverse group of creatives. We encompassed all art forms and ages, but we created a vulnerable place to experiment and stretch out talents. The group support we created gave space and time to bring our dreams to life.

Here are a few links to begin your search for an artist’s residency. Chateau Orquevaux has just opened their application process as well and I highly recommend it.

https://www.chateauorquevaux.com/

https://resartis.org/

Check out the National Parks for residencies.

https://artistcommunities.org/directory/residencies

If you want a self-directed residency there are a couple of places here in Santa Fe that offer space. https://jentough.com/

https://www.santafeartistgetaway.com/residency

Another fulfilling way to experience something like a residency is to join an art retreat. I host several international ones a year.

For 2025 I am putting together one in San Miguel de Allende

2026 will take us to both Ireland and Scotland.

2027 will be a retreat in the south of France or Egypt, or both.

Stay in touch with me to find out more. I almost have enough people for the trip next year so contact me to be on the list as soon as registration opens.

Until next time, take care of yourself and go play and make beautiful art.

Sandra