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Residency Program for Artists and Creatives

Duration- 1-3 weeks
Between 5 Jan to 25 Feb 2024

This is a program for artists and creatives, yearning for a serene retreat to nurture their creativity and reflect on their ideas. The program is specifically offered to individuals seeking solitude and inspiration in a tranquil setting to delve into their creative pursuits. Whether you’re an artist, writer, musician, or working in any other medium/field, this program is perfect for those seeking time for self-reflection, exploration and focus on creative work. 

Nestled in a picturesque Himalayan winter landscape, the studio has long been a haven for artists and creatives of all disciplines. Located in Dharmshala, H.P. India our residence provides a private, peaceful environment where you can focus on your work, surrounded by the beauty of winter. We invite artists and creatives from all fields to join us at our studio for an immersive winter residency experience. 

What we offer

  • Comfortable heated shared studio space with a valley view to sit and work.
  • Cozy heated rooms, hot water, kettle, yoga mat, wifi and private balcony.
  • Three delicious, locally-sourced meals daily to fuel your inspiration.
  • A quiet and reflective atmosphere to nurture your ideas.
  • Opportunities to connect with like-minded residents.
  • The enchanting winter landscape as your backdrop.
  • Supportive staff to assist with your needs.

Residency Details

  • Residency Period: January 5th to February 25th, 2024.
  • Duration: Choose from 1 to 3 weeks to align with your needs.
  • Cost: INR4,000+18%GST per night, including a private room and all meals.
  • Prospective residents are encouraged to apply in a timely manner as seats will be filled on a first come first serve basis.
  • We will only be accepting a maximum of 8 residents at a time to maintain the tranquility of the experience.

Application Process:

To apply, please submit the following: 

  • A portfolio or samples of your work.
  • A brief statement explaining your creative goals and the importance of this residency.
  • A short biography highlighting your artistic background.
  • Your preferred residency duration with dates (1-3 weeks).

Contact information : Send applications to residency@dharamkotstudio.com

Selection Process:

Our selection committee will carefully review all applications, considering artistic potential and the desire for introspective creative exploration. Acceptance notifications will be sent within a week of applying.

Weather:

January and February are the coldest months here with temperature ranging between 10°c to -7°c. The days are usually sunny and at night the temperature sees a significant dip. This area does get snowfall but road and air travel continue without issue.

How to reach:

By Air – Dharamshala airport is the nearest airport which is around 20 km (50 minutes) from the studio, direct taxi (1200/-) to the studio will be available.

By Bus – Overnight journey from Delhi by semi-sleeper bus. The nearest bus station is Dharamshala (8 km), and from the bus station, you can take a taxi (Rs. 600/-) to the studio.

By Train – Pathankot (85km) is the nearest railway station, from Pathankot you can take public transport to Dharamshala and then a taxi to the Studio. Or you can take a taxi from Pathankot to the studio.

FAQs

Q- What’s the definition of an artist or a creative profession?
A – Art and creativity encompass a wide range of professions and fields that involve various forms of artistic expression and innovation. Here are some art and creativity-related professions:

Visual Artists, Performing Artists, Writers and Authors, Filmmakers and Directors, Photographers, Fashion Designers, Interior Designers, Architects, Musicians, Dancers and Choreographers, Art Therapists, Creative Directors, Art Educators, Curators, Art Dealers and Gallery Owners, Art Historians, Graphic Designers, Illustrators, Cartoonists and Comic Artists, Game Designers, Industrial Designers, Art Conservators and Restorers, Set Designers, Sound Designers, Makeup Artists and Costume Designers.

These are just a few examples of the many professions that involve art and creativity. The field continues to evolve, and interdisciplinary roles that combine artistic skills with technology and innovation are becoming increasingly common.

Q – Will it be too cold to live there?
A- It does get cold but most of our residents manage quite well. It is important to dress appropriately and for you to not have any physical ailments that can be exacerbated by the cold.

Q- Do the roads ever close due to snowfall?
A- No, the roads are always open even when it snows.

Q- Can I take pottery workshops during my residency program?
A- Absolutely. The workshops do carry extra charges but we would be delighted for you to experience the wonderful medium that is clay.

Q- Can my partner come (who is not an artist)?
A- Yes, partners can accompany residents but do ensure you mention the fact on the application form. There will be extra charges of 1600+Taxes/night including all meals.

Q- What cuisine do you serve during meal times?
A- Our kitchen serves delicious seasonal indian vegetarian food, eggs and fruit.

Q- What do I need to bring?
A- Please bring your art supplies, books, study materials, tools, etc. Alternatively, you can order your instruments and accessories online and get it delivered at the studio address. General stationary and art supplies can be purchased locally. Kindly mention any special requirements you may need, on the application.

Q– Are you located in a very remote location? Will I have network connectivity?
A– We are located at a 5 min walk from Dharamkot village, nestled in a serene pine and cedar forest. The beauty of our Studio is its location, which will give you an experience of living in nature while being near the city centre. You will have network connectivity with major providers like Airtel, Jio etc. And we have high–speed wifi too!

Photos From The Retreat

Creative Pottery Retreat

ACTIVITY
Day 1 (Friday) - Today, you will arrive in the serene village of Dharamkot. We recommend you check-in to our Studio latest by 12PM, though checkin time is till 2PM.
After settling-in to your rooms, you will be served lunch at the cafeteria.
At 4 PM, you will start with your first workshop “An Introduction to Pottery”. This workshop will take about 2.5 to 3 hrs.
At night, you will indulge in dinner (possibly around a bonfire depending on weather) and then relax.
Day 2 (Saturday) - Today, you will start your day with a warm cup of tea & Nature Walk to Naddi. The trail meanders through the forests, offering stunning views of the valley below and the distant mountain ranges.
On returning, you will be served a sumptuous breakfast in our cafe.
At around 11 AM, you will head to the Studio for your second workshop. Today we will split the group in two batches for personalised attention to all participants. One group will attend the “Hand-building- pinching” workshop and the other will learn the “Intro to Pottery Wheel” workshop. Each workshop will take about 2.5 hrs.
Then you will break for lunch.
Post-lunch, you will take the second workshop from the above two, depending on what you did in the morning.
Wrap up your dinner at our cafe.
Day 3 (Sunday) - Today is a mix of learning and exploration!

After breakfast, you will attend the fourth workshop on “Texturing/Surface Decoration”.
Then after lunch, you will start your local sightseeing tour. Our expert local guides will take you to the Dalai Lama Temple, St. John’s in the Wilderness Church and the Mcleodganj Market. Take time to experience the spiritual energy of Dharamshala.
You can either return to the Studio with our guide in a cab which departs by 6 PM or stay longer and take a taxi back.
Dinner will be served in the evening but you can also explore one of the many restaurants/ bars in Mcleodganj.
Day 4 (Monday) - You will begin the day with yoga/meditation at one of the many renowned yoga studios in Dharamkot.

Then, head back to the Studio for breakfast and another day of pottery learning. You will now learn the advanced techniques in pottery making in your fifth and sixth art sessions.
We will again split the group in two batches for personalised attention to all participants. One group will attend the “Advanced Hand-building- Slab/coiling method” workshop and the other will learn the “Wheel Throwing/ Shaping Technique” workshop. Each workshop will take about 2.5 hrs.
Then you will break for lunch.
Post-lunch, you will take the second workshop from the above two, depending on what you did in the morning.
Wrap up your dinner at our cafe. By now you must have made friends with instructors and other participants, so we are sure you have some amazing conversations.
Day 5 (Tuesday) - You will begin the day with another session of yoga/meditation.
Then, head back to the Studio for breakfast. You will now attend the last and seventh art session on “ surface decoration with Coloured Under-Glazes”. The session will be of 2.5 hrs.
After lunch, you can spend the rest of the day at leisure. You can pick your favourite thing to do today…finish off your artwork with some guidance from our instructors, head out and take a hike, go shopping, spend a lazy day in a cafe, walk around the flag point for sunset…the choices are endless. We will see you back at the Studio at 7 PM for our farewell dinner.
Day 6 (Wednesday) - Today is the day we bid adieu! After breakfast, it’s time to pack up and gaze at the Dhauladhar range for one last time till we see you again. The check-out is at 11 AM.

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INCLUDEDNOT INCLUDED
5 nights accommodationAirfare
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)Alcohol
Pottery Sessions Courier charges for shipping Art pieces you create
Half- Day tour to McleodgunjBank fee/ Money exchange fee/ Other payment charges
Nature walk, Yoga/Meditation SessionsLaundry
Art Supplies

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