Chateau Orqeuvaux

In the autumn of 2023, I eagerly applied for a month-long residency at Château Orquevaux in Orquevaux, France, nestled in the heart of the Champagne region. This residency was to take place in September 2024.

Initially, I had planned to immerse myself in plein air painting, watercolour, and my typical linear style. However, as the departure date drew near, I felt a shift in my approach. I grappled with the challenge of structuring my time during the residency. Before my departure, I sought advice from a friend who had recently completed a residency. He encouraged me to embark on the experience without preconceived expectations or a rigid plan. Taking his advice to heart, I set off with uncertainty and openness to whatever lay ahead.

Before setting off, I had numerous questions about what the residency would entail: Would formal instruction exist? What would I learn from the experience? Was there an expectation to produce a body of work? Arriving in Paris with two bags filled with art supplies and a handful of clothes, my mind was abuzz with anticipation and curiosity. Upon reaching the Chateau, I eagerly absorbed the conversations of other participating artists as they shared their aspirations and uncertainties, further adding to my sense of ambiguity. The beauty of the Chateau's grounds and architecture took my breath away. As I mingled during the meet-and-greet, I wandered with my camera, utterly captivated by the breathtaking landscape. Exploring the Château's rooms and corridors, I was enchanted by the intricate tapestries adorned with whimsical figures, and it was in this enchanting environment, my artistic journey truly began.

Over the ensuing four weeks, I wholeheartedly immersed myself in my artistic endeavours, establishing a routine of painting from 7 to 9 in the morning, taking a break for a meal, and resuming painting from 9:30 to 12:30. Following another meal, I dedicated my afternoons to painting from 1 to 6. Amidst my artistic pursuits, I savoured cocktails with newfound friends, shared delightful dinners at 7, and occasionally found myself painting into the late hours of the night. Some evenings were filled with animated conversations, laughter, and even impromptu karaoke sessions, serving as moments of rejuvenation for my creative spirit. Through this process, I forged meaningful connections and lasting friendships. In retrospect, the residency was a profound journey of self-discovery within creativity. Engaging with artists from various disciplines in a shared space—creating, conversing, dining, imbibing, singing, and even shedding the occasional tear—was an enchanting and enriching experience. Gaining insight into fellow artists' creative processes, vulnerabilities, strengths, and passions has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on my artistic odyssey.