Artist Residency: Chateau Orquevaux

Artist Residency: Chateau Orquevaux

I'd never been on an artist residency, so I did not know what to expect. But whatever my expectations were, they were far exceeded during my recent residency at Chateau Orquevaux. Nestled in the French countryside, the Chateau sits overlooking a tranquil lake complete with bridges and waterfalls. Everyone was stunned by the amazing vista, which the photos do not do justice.

Residents can stay for either a fortnight or a month, and the residency accepts writers as well as visual artists. During my stay, there were about 20 guests, most of whom were housed in the chateau. A small number were housed in cottages within the small local town of Orquevaux, which sits just outside the chateau gates. Each resident has a single bedroom and a separate studio, although alternative arrangements for couples may be possible. While some studios were located in the main house, my studio was housed in the converted stables, which held about 10 generous studios. My studio was the largest I'd ever had and I wasn't really sure what to do with all that space.

On arrival, we were presented with champagne and nibbles. Our bags were brought to our rooms, and we were given a quick tour before dinner. Dinner was served buffet style, and we were invited to help ourselves. Each night the food was different, but on every occasion, there was a green salad, a cheese platter, a selection of vegetable and meat or fish dishes, as well as a dessert. The food is made on-site by a local and it was marvellous. Be prepared to eat like a king.

The following morning, we were taken by van to the local art supply store where we could stock up on art supplies. I had sent a box ahead of me so I personally didn't need much. There is also an art supply cupboard in the basement with the abandoned products of previous artists, which covers all the basic materials. Each artist's studio had a desk, a lamp, an easel, and accompanying seating. 

We were largely left to our own devices to create however, there were a few structured activities along the way. These included an arts business session, a writing feedback circle, and a life drawing class, which were voluntary for all guests. There was bonfire night, a literary salon, and swimming in the lake if the weather permitted. On the second-to-last day, an open studio event is held whereby all residents are invited to present what they have been working on. While it was a bit nerve-racking, by this stage, everyone was on easy terms with each other, so it was quite an enjoyable and enriching experience.

Outside of the chateau, there is little to do. In the local vicinity, there is a cute little castle that we sketched and a sunflower field within walking distance. There are also cows and a local church. Needless to say, residents mainly stayed on-site. 

The program is run by a couple called Ziggy and Beulah, who are American and Australian, respectively, so it's not surprising that the majority of attendees are of similar origin. The age groups were quite diverse, and I was pleased that everyone was very normal and everyone got along well. Despite everyone's initial reservations, by the end of a fortnight, we were all happily dressing up in costume and belting out songs on the karaoke machine with very little self-consciousness.

Chateau Orquevaux Leah Mariani

The amount of work done is different for each individual. As the hosts often reminded us, the residency was there for whatever we needed from it. While some participants worked eagerly into the night, others relaxed each afternoon with a glass of wine, and some slept a lot and caught up on much-needed sleep. Unfortunately, I caught a cold upon arrival and was ferried to the local doctor to obtain a course of antibiotics. In the second week, I strived to make up for lost time (both socially and artistically) and in the end. I presented 12 finished works on paper at the open studio event. I was pleased with what I had accomplished. 

The residency gave me the time and space to focus on myself and my art practice. While long-term benefits are yet to come to fruition, my art practice will be better off for the experience. I've come away feeling refreshed, invigorated and with a whole bunch of new friends who are equally passionate about art as I am. If you're thinking about applying for an artist residency, then I say go ahead and do it! You will not regret it for a minute.

For more information on the Chateau Orquevaux artist residency, go to: https://www.chateauorquevaux.com/ or email me with questions at info@leahmariani.com.

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About the author

Leah is a Melbourne/Naam based artist who started painting later in life, after training to become a Chartered accountant. Her figurative artworks explore the portrayal of womanhood in popular culture. In addition to painting people, counting money, and raising small humans, she sometimes finds time to write. Leah has had artciles published in Money Magazine online. This Artist Blog covers exhibition news, behind the scene insights, artist inspiration and art collecting tips. Join the INVITE ONLY list below and have new blog posts dropped in your inbox.

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