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Olivia Brouwer, Canada, October 2024
“NG Art offering financial subsidies and support to young artists is a wonderful way to encourage the next generation of creators to venture to new places and learn from other cultures.
Nicky was happy to work with me and she also provided documents that helped me apply for a grant, allowing me to participate in this residency. “
Please submit an application here and in the submit tab where it asks you to identify your package write: Subsidy
Melissa Shaak, USA, October 2024
I came to NG Art Creative Residency looking for inspiration–from the Provencal landscape, cultural ambiance, and fellow artists from around the world–and found all of that and much more. Nicky has created something really very special here! The rich visual environment was a feast for my video art, especially the gorgeously renovated 17th century olive mill. And Nicky’s gracious hosting and farm-to-table feasts were their own inspiration. To have my creativity nourished on so many levels has been a great gift.
Karin Cagy, Brazil, October 2024
My one-month residency was nothing short of a fairytale. I arrived with high expectations, yet every one of them was wonderfully surpassed.
Nicky and Edwin are gracious, captivating hosts who create an atmosphere that feels both warm and inspiring, seamlessly integrating you into the dynamic life of the Moulin. Nicky went above and beyond to help me connect with local women for interviews essential to my project. In this vibrant space, filled with diverse and talented artists, I quickly adapted my painting routine.
The landscape itself is breathtaking, offering constant inspiration, while Nicky’s unforgettable dinners spark engaging conversations over exquisite food and wine. I left not only with a wealth of new work but also brimming with fresh ideas and inspiration.
Christine Nitter, Norway, October 2024
Nicky is a connoisseur of life who has created a truly unique space for those wishing to immerse themselves in their art. Here, you can play and dream, try out new ideas, create, and laugh. With an eye for detail and a genuine interest in others, she is the perfect host. She uplifts both you as a person and your art, while remaining discreet and sensitive to giving you the time and space you need. She is never intrusive, but works both behind the scenes and amongst us artists in a caring and elegant manner.
I would warmly recommend this beautiful place. It has changed my life. I hope to be back soon.
Warmly,
Christine
Jean Lampen, South Africa, October 2024
I had the privilege of attending the NG Art Creative Residency in Maussane, France for three unforgettable weeks. During my stay, I had the opportunity to work alongside artists from around the world, creating an inspiring environment for creative exchange and collaboration. The residency provided a rich learning experience that has deeply influenced my art practise.
Ou host, Nicky Ginsberg, made the recidency truly special with her warmth and generosity. She not only shared her incredible french cuisine, cooking and baking for us, bus also went above and beyond to provide invaluable insights into the local area, recommending exhibitions, markets and cultural sites to explore.
The residency was a perfect balance of creative growth, community and immersion in the beautiful Provencal surroundings. I left with new perspectives, fresh ideas and lasting memories that will continue to shape my work in the months to come.
Marna de Wet, South Africa, October 2024
My three weeks at NG Art Creative Residency were transformative. The beautiful environment provided the perfect backdrop for creativity to flourish. Surrounded by fellow artists, I felt inspired and challenged, and that sparked new ideas. I found the space to reflect on my practice and develop my work in ways I never expected. The supportive community fostered an atmosphere of encouragement and exploration, making every day a rewarding experience. I left not only with a deeper understanding of my art but also with lasting friendships and connections. It was truly a life changing experience.
Cande Carbo, Argentina, September 2024
I loved my stay at the moulin with my cohorts and you and Edwin. You were super helpful and the system you have developed in this residency is very optimal.
For me, to have the possibility of visiting by means of your car, bikes or walking the surrounding area was definitely a plus, and a very important perk in this program.
I also enjoyed very much meeting with local artists and your friends whenever that was organized.
You have a wonderful home and the location is fantastic.
It has been super stimulating to engage with the local community and get into the area customs.
At the same time the freedom of mind to paint in my own time was a new experience.
The artists I met and shared time with at the moulin were a big plus in terms of human connection and also artistic feed back.
I came into this experience a bit apprehensive and not knowing if I was going to leave the next day and was surprised by how complete and fulfilling it has been. I am very satisfied with the work I produced in Provence, my palette changed and I started to include some figurative images. All new to me and a welcome addition and matters to further explore.
This slight shift was very much appreciated by my atelier here in Buenos Aires.
Artist Sabrina Rosenheim, June 2024
I am incredibly grateful for my time at the NG Art residency, which provided a unique opportunity to immerse myself completely in painting. The moulin is a peaceful and historic oasis away from city life, but also a flourishing creative hub, where motivation and the art world never feel far away. I spent three weeks at the residency as part of the NG Art Creative & Galerie Heimat Prize, preparing for a solo exhibition at the local Galerie Heimat. During that time, I met and made wonderful artist friends of all ages and from all walks of life (from Canada to Germany to Australia), and found myself immersed in a constant flow of stimulating conversation, which began to feed into my work. The moulin is a beautiful space, and the studio itself spacious and accessible 24/7. This gave me complete freedom to spend late nights and early mornings working alone, or relaxed afternoons creating in the company of fellow artists. It was a joy to wake up each morning in such an idyllic place, knowing the studio and its rich possibilities were waiting for me.
My huge thanks go to Nicky and Edwin, who welcomed me into their home and their lives with such kindness, generosity, and unwavering support. I will treasure our laughter and meaningful discussions over the incredible banquets Nicky cooked up in the beautiful outdoor settings, the studio discussions and visits, film screenings, market days out, and trips to nearby towns to take in the general beauty of Provence. The residency has rejuvenated my work. Months later, I can feel the effects of my time at the moulin guiding my painting with renewed confidence and passion.
Laura Hope, UK, April 2024
I was awarded the NG Creative Art Residency Prize at Wells Art Contemporary 2023 and really didn’t know what to expect… I booked my stay for April and arrived at the Moulin on a beautifully sunny Spring afternoon. I was given a warm welcome by Nicky and Edwin who proceeded to show me around their absolutely gorgeous home before preparing a scrumptious dinner.
The next two weeks were total bliss. I’ve never had the chance to be completely absorbed in my practice and that’s what this residency gave me. I was transported to a peaceful setting where time almost stopped… I spent my early mornings exploring the beautiful Alpilles before spending long days in the studio. Nicky was very generous with her time, often popping into the studio and always available to chat about my work. I feel my practice has come on leaps and bounds from having this time to breathe. It almost felt like a long-awaited exhale. I’ve learnt so much that I’m taking forward into my new work. It really has been transformational.
Food was a central part of the residency (I think I ate my body weight in olives and cheese!!). Nicky and Edwin cooked the most delicious feasts in the evenings where all the residents could come together and share about their practice. It was wonderful to be able to meet creatives from other disciplines and learn from them. I formed lovely friendships over the two weeks at the Moulin and have memories I will cherish for a lifetime. It was a very special time.
Emilio Pérez Angeles, Mexico, April 2024
Trying to imagine a more idyllic place and context than this it’s almost an impossible task.
What’s is really easy, is to find the proper time and space to create, to be inspired, and to see countless ideas coming to surface. Since every corner of the house seems to keep a particular charm, which invites to be discovered, observed, enjoyed and engraved in the memory with the nostalgia of those who do not want to leave.
While outside the Moulin, the always fascinating rural landscapes of the Alpilles, with its unique soft light, fresh air, rich culture and picturesque towns await for you.
If all of that wasn’t enough, wait to meet Nicky and Edwin, lovely persons who soon assure to create a sense of community and home-like atmosphere, making everything runnning smoothly and delightening everyone with marvelous dinners and local wines.
I also had the fortune to coincide with a wonderful group of artists with whom I shared not only the studio, but opinions, laughs and endearing conversations.
In a few words: personally and artistically, the Residency has meant a life-changing experience for me.
Michael Johanson USA , July 2023
When I first glanced at the NG Art Creative Residency website, I imagined a magical and wondrous place where artists are able to immerse themselves in their work and have deeply meaningful experiences through their interactions with others. I am happy to say that the residency turned out to be all of these things!
Living and working in such a gorgeous, tranquil, and supportive environment with other dedicated artists and staff members was a unique and life-changing experience. The three pillars of the residency are art, culture, and food, and this gives a sense of the holistic approach to the creative life that makes the residency so special.
During my three-week residency, I worked on two compositional projects, and I was delighted with what I was able to accomplish. I completed a movement of a piano trio and a significant chunk of a string quartet. Moreover, working in an environment of such great beauty and freedom allowed me to achieve a sense of creative flow that is often difficult to find in everyday life, and this in turn helped me to make important breakthroughs in my artistic practice.
I continue to grow from the experiences I had at the Moulin. From the serenity of the working and living spaces, the lovely olive groves and mountains surrounding the residency, the visits to local destinations of great cultural import and natural beauty, and the profound interactions with fellow residents and staff, my stay at the Moulin provided me with fond memories and life lessons that will stay with me forever.
Qing Pud, Hong Kong/UK June 2023
Maussane was like a fairytale; Greeted by warm sunshine, surrounded by beautiful nature and vibrant colours. Waking up everyday to the refreshing summer air and calming blue sky. It helped me awaken my senses again and be fully present in the moment. As my art practice focuses on the themes of social connection and everyday experience, this residency provided me everything that I could ask for. Travelling, food and community were prominent elements that inspired me greatly as I was captivated by each moment of living. Notably, the grand piano of Moulin was a delightful treat as it sang brightly with beautiful acoustic; I ravished every second of playing. The daily, ordinary life was certainly extraordinary where inspiration just dances in the air. Unexpectedly, I grew passionate towards tomato as it was ever-present in my everyday experience from conversation, visits to market to daily meal. I found myself creating drawings and paintings of tomato. This ordinary food object became a vessel of heartwarming memories of my time spent in Maussane. The sweetness of tomato will always be endearing to me.
On many occasions, Nicky and Edwin would prepare lavish feast for us with such a passion. I was always looking forward to our communal dinner as everything was prepared with great effort and the taste was just outstanding. Moreover, these dinners provided many opportunities to meet people from all walks of life. It was a very enjoyable experience where I was able to learn more about the world around me through engaging in conversation. This very much linked to my practice as verbal discussion is a form of research which informs my work.
During my stay, I worked alongside with four other artists and the exchanged conversation was incredibly valuable. I have learned so much from their personal experience and it broadened my mind. Everyone was always compassionate and caring, this welcoming environment allowed me to create art with gusto and happiness. I am very grateful to have made such wonderful friends. For me, the Moulin will always be a magical place enchanted with warm memories of arts, passion and friendship.
Tania Mason, Australia May 2023
My stay with Nicky and Edwin at the beautiful Moulin was everything I had imagined it to be.
From the first initial contact to the very last Nicky and Ruby have been spectacular with communication.
On arrival, I was greeted warmly and had a generous induction, i.e. going over the residencies’ guidelines. Which I found quite helpful.
My room was perfect and the other artists in residence were a broad spectrum of the arts. It was wonderful meeting them, hanging out, talking about all things art, life and getting our work done. Quite a few moments of laughter and an abundance of food and wine.
Being a bit of a food head myself I just loved all the meals Nicky and Ruby put together. Bringing us all together and getting to know each other was always a wonderful and enjoyable experience. We had soriee’s that involved beautiful piano performances, artist talks all surrounded by a generous amount of beautifully cooked food and wine.
The studio space is where we spend most of our time. Thinking, creating and making works. Talking with each other about their own practice and discussing art, life and the next walk in and around the area. Everything is there for you to make work. Nicky and Ruby are so generous in facilitating for you to have the best practice possible.
The Moulin is placed perfectly. It is within walking distance of the town of Mauussane Le Applies. The town has gorgeous bakeries, general food/deli/wine. Quite a few restaurants and my favourite was visiting the markets with Nicky and Edwin.
I think what took my breath away was the striking influence the landscape has on you. The flora is abundant and the whole experience resonated with me that I would like to one day come back again for a month to explore more and create. It was truly a special and unique experience…..the food and wine, the company and the interior of the moulin were just beyond words. But let’s not forget the time and space to think, make and create art.
Thank you, Nicky, Ruby and Edwin.
Hanna-Maija Pääkkönen Finland, March 2023
Arrival to the moulin is like transferring to another time. The location is filled with history, incredible scenery and beautiful nature.
As a multidisciplinary artist I found inspiration to so much more than the work I had planned to do during my stay and will continue to enjoyed the inspiration I received even after the residency.
Nicky is a wonderful hostess and we enjoyed beautiful food and inspiring conversations with my fellow artist. She also provided me with an opportunity to perform to a local audience in a beautiful soirée. Absolutely beautiful experience.
Warm breeze, blue shutters, wet thick paints, groggy clay, yellow fields reminding of summer, iced coffee followed by wine.
Days at the Moulin have been like a soft light pink dream, surrounded by incredible creatives.
During my time at the residency, I have been able to explore different methods of sculpting, painting, sketching, and some fine cooking.
The communal dinner has given me so much inspiration and opened my eyes to inspiring people and new experiences.
Quick and long living hands running on the piano filling the air with music, bees eating into green round fat grapes, the sound of bicycles on the rock path returning from the market with baked goods, a splash of the pool, beer bottles dancing, new unfamiliar freckles and one big straw hat.
The Móulin is a one-of-a-kind place, drawing fascinating people, and is run by one fascinating Nicky.
Inspiration is a keyword, all I had to do was open my heart and take a deep breath.
Memories will forever stay in my mind and body, and a return is definitely at heart.
Coming to the residency was a long time of planning and consideration. I’d never done anything like this before and was unsure how to navigate it.
Nicky was gracious and informative and serious about the transformative opportunity the Moulin could offer.
We interviewed and discussed my work and intention for my time there well before my arrival; This opened my mind to consider carefully the materials I would bring and how I would and could focus my time and intentions.
Arriving at the Moulin was nothing short of breathtaking. The area in which it’s located and the home itself are truly from a storybook. And once welcomed inside, she walked me through a home brimming with beautiful art, gorgeous details and furnishings, and the most astounding countertop full of fresh produce from the market, that’s there for the taking.
The studio had another artist already at work and was ready for me to settle in to my space. I set up quickly and got to work straight away. And there I stayed, working intently and intensely. Patrick Morales-Lee was my studio mate during my time and the feedback and critique that became everyday conversations between us helped me take my work to another level.
When not at work, a very beautiful and short walk to Maussane held me in its charms and
beauty. My new friend – Nina Gordon (the other artist in residence during my stay) and I would drive to the bustling and chic town of St. Remy de Provence. We could dine in beautiful and delicious restaurants, do some shopping and go to their wonderful market.
But the true Piece de resistance were the outstanding dinners created with love and great
attention to detail by Nicky and her partner Edwin. These meals gave everyone a chance to
gather, drink delicious wines, eat glorious and very fresh from the local farm food and to meet a wide range of locals who would come and join us at the table.
I cannot convey enough the profound and lasting effect this experience has left me with. Nicky and I continue to touch base and she has generously offered to help mentor me with my ultimate goal of showing my work in a gallery.
I intend to return here over and again and will always think of it as another piece of home.
Our stay with Nicky and Edwin has been a transformative experience for us. We have been very fortunate in having the opportunity to stay at such an amazing and welcoming place.
Nicky, through her long experience running galleries and arts organisations, knows exactly what artists and creative people require in order to produce meaningful work. She is skilled and empathetic in putting together compatible artists and providing a situation in which collaboration and creative exchange can take place. The artists that we had the good fortune to be placed with have become firm friends and we have learnt a lot from our interaction with them.
The mill and studio complex is beautifully kept and provides a stimulating and tranquil setting in which to stay and work. Nicky and Edwin are great cooks, in fact cooking is their art form, and they created memorable evening dinners and get-togethers with eclectic and interesting guests.
The rooms and accommodation are thoughtfully and beautifully presented and the whole ambience and experience of the residency was wonderful. The setting at the foot of the Alpilles mountains is perfect; it is surrounded by neat olive groves, dusty lanes and breathtaking mountain walks. It is perfect for outdoor painting and drawing. The indoor studio space is well equipped and adaptable and provides an ideal working environment.
Arles, St Remy and Avignon, which are nearby, are very beautiful, historic and stimulating and the local village of Mausanne, has everything you need a 20 minute walk down the road.
Both of us are very grateful for the opportunity to progress some projects we had been working on, as well as developing new drawing and printing techniques. The residency gave us some time to reflect on where we were in our creative lives and to confirm new directions for our work. We left Moulin Greoux with a lot of energy, positivity and excitement and look forward to continuing the processes that we have developed there.
Truly we could not have wished for a more inspiring and invigorating place to work.
There are an abundance of experiences to expound on in regards to my stay at the Moulin de Gréoux. From a six hour slow-roasted lamb, to a carafe of water infused with verbena, everything Nicky touches she makes beautiful.
My time was filled with work, delicious food, bike rides, plunges in the pool, and hikes through the countryside. I met artists with inspiring practices and had rigorous conversations over luxurious meals at the dinner table. It was invigorating to my soul and spirit to be in such a convivial atmosphere. I will think on my stay with an aching fondness and desire to return.
I knew that my stay at Moulin de Gréoux would be a beautiful experience filled with many hours in the studio working on new paintings, and enjoying getting to know the artists whom I was working alongside. What I did not grasp was just how beautiful and vast this 17th century olive mill, transformed into elegant living spaces, dinning areas, gallery and studio would be.
Ensconced in the verdant landscape of Provence, surrounded by working farms, olive orchards and vineyards, it is as though these landscapes have not changed since the time Cezanne and Van Gogh painted them.
The atmosphere is one of quiet focus in the studio, working away in a former barn- the rough hewn beams of the ceiling revealing its rustic age with a small kitchenette to keep everyone well fed.
Nicky Ginsburg, who created this cultural oasis, NG Art Creative Residency, has also created a wonderful sense of community and warmth. Nicky and her partner Edwin hosted several elaborate and exquisite meals for the artists as well as friends, writers and collectors whom were invited to the studios to see our work and discuss our ideas before we sat down to feast. Served with an aesthetic grace that gave the table a sumptuous elegance: the meals were an Epicurean toast to the creative life.
It was overall an incredible experience: the atmosphere of the residency and the combination of the four artists who were working in the studio space, spending long hours painting, talking and sharing our knowledge and experiences.
I created two watercolors while on my two-week residency, paintings that will be exhibited in an upcoming show in Los Angeles. They will have the added glow of the shimmering light of Provence and the warm sense of community and the new friendships that I made during my stay at Moulin de Gréoux.
Gary Brewer, 2021
In December 2020 I was elated to have won The NG Creative Residency prize as part of the Wells Art Contemporary exhibition (and competition). Nicky Ginsberg has created a truly one of a kind residency. You are immediately greeted with a warm welcome and made to feel instantly comfortable within the magnificent Moulin De Greoux.
Every day of my three week residency I found myself in awe of Nicky and Edwin’s beautiful home, situated in the picturesque Maussane-Les-Alpilles, Provence. There is something very special about the atmosphere within the residency; the artelier is perfect for any practitioner and with such glorious views outside, you find yourself constantly inspired. Nicky and Gabby (Nicky’s creative assistant) were also kind enough to show us the brocantes, art galleries and cultural sights within Provence; absorbing a broad depth of artwork from old masters to contemporary figures profoundly influences one’s art practice. I hope it does not appear conceited, but I genuinely believe that I have created one of my best works to date during this residency, the time to focus solely on art & culture in Provence is every artist’s dream.
Nicky’s passion for art, food and culture is a pleasure to be around, my fellow artists in residence & I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her, Edwin and Gabby. This was an experience that will serve to inform future works but also develop my making process, as the exchange of ideas between fellow residents was invaluable. I look forward to maintaining contact with everyone that I shared this remarkable residency with. I feel ever so grateful to have had this opportunity.
… Staying at NG Art Creative Residency is a pleasure – even when you find yourself here when the whole of France goes into lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic! Nicky and her team – Hannah was her super-helpful assistant – make the stay easy and relaxing so that the creatives can get on with the work. The environment is a total visual pleasure to soak up: the backdrop of the mountains, the lovely grounds of Mas des Pelerins homestead, and the wonderful colours which were on display during late October and the beginning of November. Even with the restrictions of lockdown, I was able to go out into the countryside to paint en plein air – after all this is my profession now. The area is full of wonderful scenery and painting opportunities which I tried to do justice to…
I loved my time at the NG Art Creative Residency. Nicky Ginsberg (along with her assistant Hannah) have created a warm, friendly, creative environment for the artists in residence. It is in a very inspiring location, surrounded by beautiful countryside and is really peaceful and beautiful.
Having an extended time to spend creating artwork is such a gift. I really feel my practice developed and moved forward during my time at the residency.
I know the ideas and inspiration I gained during my time in Provence will be with me for a long time to come and will inform and inspire my practice in the future.
As a writer, it’s somewhat embarrassing to find it difficult to put an experience into words – but that is the case for my time at NG Art Creative Residency as a guest of Nicky Ginsberg. The Residency is a truly extraordinary cradle for creativity. The support and interest of Nicky and her team, the sense of community with other artists, the extraordinarily beautiful Provençal surroundings, and above all the protection of time and space for making art are a powerful combination.
The three weeks I spent at the Residency were the first time I had had in more than a decade to dedicate solely to my writing. I went with the fairly straightforward objective of putting words on paper, but left with so much more: new skills and strategies that I had developed by sitting down every day and writing; a renewed belief in my own capacity as an writer; and possibilities for future collaboration with other artists.
As I take what I have learned and developed back to “the real world”, ready for the next adventure, I will miss discussing the state of the world over breakfast, sharing work over dinner, running along the canal, and above all my favourite writing spot in the garden by the pool. I’m so grateful to have spent this time immersed in the colours (and food!) of autumnal Provence, a little envious of those for whom this experience is yet to come, and above all proud to be part of a community and a shared history that Nicky is developing: a universe of beautiful, thoughtful art that will trace its roots back to the olive groves of NG Art Creative Residency.
Provence’s history of artists working in the region is long and profound. To have the opportunity to work in the fields of a landscape that has been painted by so many great artists was an unforgettable experience and a real privilege.
I’ll miss Eygalieres. The NG Art Creative Residency’s 15th century homestead and grounds (Mas des Pelerins) are absolutely beautiful and homely. Mostly I’ll miss the community of artists that come to Mas des Pelerins from all over the world, I’ll miss having conversations about art and life over breakfast, the studio space, swimming in the afternoon, painting all day, long lunches, short lunches, drawing the landscape, long walks into town then walking back again, eating oysters at the markets on a Saturday, dinner and wine, more painting, then knowing I can do it all again tomorrow.
Nicky, you are a true leader. You’ve created a unique and accessible opportunity for artists who want to make work in the south of France with other like-minded creatives while experiencing Provence’s rich culture. Your passion for life is exhilarating, and your ability to bring people together and devotion to the art world is inspiring. Thank you.
The NG Art Creative Residency is a culmination of Nicky’s passion for the arts, her local community and her residents. She cares deeply about creating an environment that connects all three in a meaningful and inspiring way. It’s the supportive and inclusive manner with which she is able to do this, that is her true mastery.
There are so many moments from my stay that are etched in my memory. The beauty of the surrounding landscape is undeniable. Painting en plein air by the canal with the sun on my back and the majestic Alpilles in the distance was a ”pinch me” moment.
Then there were the many memorable conversations around the dinner table and in the studio. Meandering walks in the surrounding countryside. Slipping into the cool blue of the pool for an afternoon dip. Letting time just melt away and immersing myself into life in Eygalières.
My stay at the Mas des Pèlerins has been so much more than I ever expected. Something I will treasure forever. My original goal was simply to dedicate intensive time to progressing my painting while being in a region of France that I adore.
What I walked away with was beyond just the artistic, it was a truly enriching experience thanks to Nicky, Gabby and the other residents who I shared time with at the Mas. Thank you.
The format of the residence at NG Creative Art Residency facilitated the time to think about new directions in my work. Working in the Eygalières region of Provence it’s hard not to depict the beauty of the light filled landscape. But instead I felt a stronger desire to depict a landscape at odds with itself. A landscape not of the picturesque but one which reflects a burden of the history of landscape painting genre and depicts the effects of modern capitalist system in which we have found ourselves a part of. The time at the residency I was able to reflect upon the overwhelming data concerning climate change the consequences of capitalism: rising inequality in the globalised world. One asks oneself the question: why do a residency in the first place? It is clear through Nicky Ginsberg’s experience in the commercial art world that she was able in a short time frame to facilitate meetings with gallerists, collectors and art world personalities of interest, which furthered mutual exchange and potential future collaborations. After experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Nicky Ginsberg and her creative team you walk away with the distinct atmosphere of the possible. Through the residency model that Nicky has created you discover new insights into your creative process. That’s the point right there-we do these residencies initially to find out more about the physical geography of the places we visit but also through the time apart from our daily routine we pursue a practice that ultimately we find out more about ourselves.
My time at NG Art Creative Residency Provence, Mas des Pelerins; House of Pilgrims
was perfect for the mental space I needed and for focussing my mind on my work away from all the noise of the politics of Britain. I used the time to experiment with methods of drawing I hadn’t tried before. The atmosphere was calm yet intense in the company of excellent fellow artists and with the support of director Nicky Ginsberg and her assistant Gabriella Beaumont who made sure we had everything we needed. There was physical and mental space for concentration as well as a great studio space and beautiful surroundings to walk and think in. Stimulating conversation around a deliciously gastronomic breakfast and supper table was had daily as was the opportunity to meet other creatives in the region. I know I have made real friends at Mas des Pelerins and I sincerely hope to return soon.
I was recently a resident at the NG Art Creative Residency in the South of France. My aim while there was to gather as much material as possible by documenting, observing and reflecting on the surrounding spaces and places and develop new work in response to the region.
Nicky has created a warm, welcoming and invigorating environment to do this. It was filled with fresh farm to table food, a cozy home base and a spacious studio all while being surrounded by the sublime natural scenery. Nicky has a depth of knowledge about the spaces and places of the area and the local people that live in them. This was invaluable for me, as my work is about place it allowed me to get the most out of the experience and gain a deeper understanding of the place. In addition, connecting with other artists and people in the arts was extremely beneficial to discuss ideas, expand concepts, try new techniques. In fact, it was such a supportive community that we even managed to make inspired action plans together for one another.
All in all this pleasant place provided me with solitude, stillness and reflection to transcend my ordinary everyday routine and instead embrace new sensations, aesthetics and ideas. The historic and vernacular architecture, peaceful sounds, stunning scenery and charming quality of light will all inform my new work and the whole experience has been extremely beneficial for my development and practice. Looking back now it feels like a distant dream and I am excited to not only respond to the site but harness and recreate my distant dreamy memories from this fleeting moment in time.
It was hard to say goodbye to Mas des Pelerins and it’s inhabitants. I felt fortunate to have been selected for the Stanley Quek Prize and an amazing period had come to an end. We had just had the climax of the exhibition and my four weeks there had been one of the best experiences of my life.
Every morning I would wake up looking forward to the food. The breakfasts at the residency were the best possible way to start a day and typified the quality and attention to detail that Nicky and Elli showed throughout. The days didn’t end too badly either, the delicious meals at the end of a long day of painting, augmented by regional wines and good conversation, were hugely welcome. Nicky and Elli also dealt amazing well with the dietary requirements that some of us threw at them.
Nicky’s warmth and generosity was totally in keeping with the place that she had created. Over my four week spell, the residency swelled with artists from many backgrounds and disciplines and the love shown by Nicky has been universal and mutual. I am excited by the potential of her vision and the prospect of future collaboration.
Most days, I’d take off on foot or bike in search of places to set up my easel. The search has never been easier as in Provence, I could have painted the view from the front gates every day at all different times and never run out of inspiration. Gliding down the quiet country roads on my first days, with a successful wet canvas on my handlebars, I realised how happy I was. I’m sure the memory of my time there will always be one of my best.
My time at Mas de Pelerins was truly surreal and transformational. Every morning began with a beautiful breakfast and the company of fellow artists.
During the days I painted in the open studio or en plein air, and when I was in need of a break, I hiked along the winding paths of Eygalières. The landscape was an unending source of inspiration and my work certainly reflected the shift I felt.
All of the residents were at different points in their careers, and as I was probably the newest to the art world, I greatly benefitted from their knowledge, mentorship, and friendship.
In the evenings we took turns preparing gorgeous meals with the fresh and local ingredients Nicky always managed to shop herself. Our dinners were a time to laugh, discuss art, and indulge in French wines.
Nicky made the residency feel like home, and the residents a family.
At the end of my four weeks, I was fortunate to participate in the first exhibition Nicky held in the 12th century Église in Eygalières. The love and effort her and her wonderful assistants, Elli and Radha, put into showcasing all 26 artists work was clear in the attention to detail, and I am proud to have been included.
The residency had a profound impact on me as an artist, and I will always cherish the carefree days I spent at Mas de Pelerins.
Never did I think an art residency would resonate so deeply within me. So deeply, in fact, that I didn’t want to leave, because I thought the whole experience was a dream.
With no preconceived idea of what to expect, having been awarded the NG Art Creative Residency, I bid Australia bon voyage and headed to the South of France.
On arrival Nicky Ginsberg embraced me with a hug – as did the entire town (figuratively speaking). The warmth of her hospitality and caring personality echoed as an innate feature on which the philosophy and foundation of the residency seemed to rest upon. Hence, my admiration for Nicky was immediate and grew quickly. The driving force and glue of the residency, she went out of her way to help make me feel comfortable and right at home.
With her spirit permeating to create harmony, wholeness and a sense shared presence, she introduced me to my fellow artist residents who have stayed in my heart ever since.
Her aspired vision for artists is as unique as her support is genuine. ‘Mas de Pelerins’, the amazing 15th Century homestead, provided me with a nourishing haven to lose myself and reassess the vision for my work. Interacting, collaborating, developing and working alongside other international artists was an experience in itself. The opportunity to further engage my work with international audiences and the local community through events and exhibitions was also an invaluable and inspiring new experience.
Nicky’s passion is relentless, serving each artist’s needs through generous personalised mentoring during the residency and beyond.
Furthermore, everything the residency offered from the location, meals, events, studio facilities and accomodation was all breathtakingly beautiful and personal. What’s more, sporadic bursts of banter and laughter throughout the homestead – especially during meal times – warmed hearts and nourished souls.
We lived and breathed in the moment, in a natural state mind, where art and life became one – an essential ingredient to being a creative.
Provence exceeded my wildest, artistic dreams. I’d fallen in love and truly believed I was living in the Van Gogh painting I viewed as a child. All this awe and wonder, encapsulated by shimmering metallic colours and ancient weathered forms, revelling in the glorious magical northern light, simply and completely hypnotised me. The historic Alpilles mountain range, a stoic feature of the surrounding landscape, while protecting the little village of Eygaliéres, exposed me to so much more.
It opened my heart to the of vitality of life and gave me a sense of my own mortality, for this experience I am truly grateful.
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