Residency Programs in the USA and Europe
A ‘Creator in Residence’ is someone who is exploring their creative unfoldment. We offer a nurturing space with loving support so you can take the time to delve into your inner world and bring forth your own unique artistic expression. No talent or experience is necessary. Our unique ‘soul centered’ approach focuses on the transformative process of creativity. Whether you are an emerging artist or an adventurous spirit, this is a wonderful opportunity to spread your wings and fly!
Our ‘Artist in Residence’ program welcomes practicing artists (also musicians, composers, dancers, writers, playwrights, filmmakers, etc.) who seek the time, space and inspiration to bring forth a body of work. Perfect for professional artists interested in the spiritual, healing or consciousness raising aspects of the arts, or who seek an inward journey of self discovery. Studio time in a beautiful and serene environment (holistic, vegetarian, drug and alcohol free) with options for daily yoga and meditation allow for a tangible experience of inner peace.
Residencies are an opportunity for deep immersion into your own creative world- with nurturing support for your soul’s journey.
In Assisi, our spacious working studio provides a panoramic view of the Umbrian hills, access to the spiritual and artistic treasures of nearby Assisi (30 minutes) and the vibrant life of an international spiritual retreat center across the street.
45 minutes from Portland, Oregon our spacious, light filled studio is nestled in a quiet and peaceful rural setting. Here you are immersed in the joyful energy found on this ‘campus of higher consciousness’ and can experience the living laboratory of an intentional spiritual community.
At either center you will find opportunity for a soul reviving retreat – with time and space for silence, daily yoga and meditation, healthy vegetarian food, lovely gardens and nature trails. You will also find, at both centers, the opportunity to experience new ways of being found in the life of an intentional spiritual community.
FIRST HAND ACCOUNT
For a wonderful report of the Artist in Residence Experience enjoy this blog article by Dominique Hurley. She inaugurated our program with her positive, resilient spirit- and with her dedication to documenting her journey in both words and images. Her blog provides a good picture of life at the Academy- and a little taste of how an artist in residence program here works- THE ARTIST IN RESIDENCE EXPERIENCE
The Pulse in Assisi
SUMMER In the summer the Academy in Assisi is a buzzing hive of creative activity. During the summer months there are many courses and the opportunity to participate in our open studio hours- as well as in the thriving culture of Ananda’s community. There are kirtans and concerts every week, as well as many spontaneous musical jams with talented musicians from around the world. Collaborative art projects spring to life. We host special guest artists – often world class, with whom you can study. Summer is a wonderful time to soak up vibrant creative energy in an extended sabbatical, learning residency or arts vacation.
AUTUMN AND WINTER During the Autumn and Winter the pace slows. The studio becomes more of a working lab with the opportunity to have extended creative time in our studio- as well as enjoy the daily yoga and meditation across the street at Ananda Europa. Artists and writers find an ideal setting for generating a major creative work.
CHRISTMAS Assisi is one of the most enchanting places to spend Christmas. St. Francis was the inventor of the creche- and throughout the entire region you will find enchanting living nativity enactments. In the ancient churches sublime choirs sing in concerts and liturgical festivities. Ananda offers a long meditation, an endearing Christmas pageant and other special courses and events.
SPELLO FLOWER FESTIVAL Every year in the small Umbrian town of Spello, a one mile long path of elaborate floral creations line the streets of this historic town. The entire town works over night to create hundreds of beautiful murals and carpets made of flower petals. Later in the day this becomes a processional path for the Sacrament. 2014 it will be held on the 21 and 22 of June. More pictures here
ASSISI MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL A spectacular evocation of Medieval and Renaissance life. The ancient town square becomes a stage for theatrical events, concerts, dances, processions, archery, spectacular floral decorations, flags, torches and candlelight processionals.
The Pulse in Portland
Portland is a city of festivals. You may want to time your visit with one of the many special events throughout the year:
Annual Festivals in the Portland area
Summer Events in the Portland area
Please contact us directly for more information about our residency and immersion opportunities; info@awakeningartsacademy.com