Amira's Winter Residency
"As a visual artist seeking dedicated time and space for my practice, my two-week stay at The Hide Artist’s Retreat in early January 2023 was nothing short of inspiring," Amira shares.
“The retreat's space itself is truly inspirational. The panoramic windows offered breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, creating an ambiance that felt immersed in a forest, especially at night with minimal light pollution allowing for clear stargazing.
The Suite, where I resided, provided a comfortable and clean living space, a great space for encouraging a natural workflow. Additionally, the Suite has a private basic kitchenette, bathroom, and cosy bedroom. The living space is adjacent to hosts Alice and Piers' family home, and separated by a heavy-duty curtain, and soundproof sliding door to ensure my privacy. I was initially apprehensive about the proximity to the family home, however I found the soft murmurs of the family noise through the curtain and door to be a comforting white noise.
Immersing myself in the surrounding nature inspired fresh approaches to my practice. Most of my days were spent exploring the local wilderness, armed with my travel easel and concertina sketchbook. I sourced sticks as tools and local mud as pigment, allowing for experimentation and play. Knowing I could retreat back to The Hide afterward made braving the cold January weather worthwhile.
Indigo Blues
Find out more about Amira’s work:
In addition to my personal endeavors, I had the opportunity to work alongside Alice as her assistant, assisting with art submissions and budgeting, and general administration. Alice warmly welcomed my input and initiative, valuing my unique experiences and knowledge. Through our collaboration, I not only gained insight into her artistic process but also developed a personal connection with her. Alice's kindness and genuine nature shone through, as she generously shared invaluable advice regarding my work and practice.
Reflecting on my two weeks at The Hide Artist’s Retreat, I realised it offered much more than I initially expected. It was a decision that afforded me the time to create, read, and reconnect with nature, all within the confines of a beautiful and unique space, hosted by welcoming individuals.
