By Art is not what you see, rather what you perceive and what you make others perceive. For generations, art has been a prevalent form of expression and communication. Moreover, it is a means of liberation and self discovery for the artist and his audience. With the constant evolution of art, there has also been an ever rising interest in creating sanctuaries for artists. These places serve as a safe haven for creators, artists and enthusiasts to freely make the most of their skill, network and find inspiration. Furthermore, artist retreats have been an emerging trend globally and India has been quick to join the club. Being a country oozing with a multitude of art forms, artist retreats have been a boon. Here we bring to you an insight to the 5 best retreats for art lovers to experience in India.
Vaayu, Goa (Artist retreat & residency)
Tucked away amidst the palm avenues of Goa is the Vaayu Village of which ‘Vaayu Vision Collective is a branch’. This exquisite artist retreat is a collaborative platform for artists to come together, explore their horizons, relax and create. Consequently, artists from across the globe visit Vaayu to take part in it’s various workshops and art festivals. Surrounded by the scenic ocean view of Goa, it is the perfect place for creators and visionaries alike to collaborate and enjoy their art. Painters, street artists, sculptors and free spirited souls are all seen flocking to Vaayu. It is loaded with residential amenities too for a comfortable stay. Vaayu is also a hotspot for parties and psy-trance musicians.
Pepper, House Kochi (Artist retreat & Art Cafe)
An evolving project by the creators of Kochi – Muzaris Biennale, Pepper house is a fabulous multi-purpose space for artists to display their work and network. This storied structure is an open space for budding and professional artists to be in the presence of each other’s creations. Additionally, it also has a beautiful Visual Arts Library and Art Space Café. The architecture is an ode to the traditional South Indian style and the attendees can also soak up the magnificent waterfront view. Furthermore, Pepper house aims at displaying and promotion visual arts for which they invite visual artists all year long to showcase their work.
If you’re looking for interesting art workshops, check this out! : Rare Artforms of India & Where Can You Practice Them?
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Art Ichol, Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh has made it’s mark on India’s tourist map for abundant reasons. However, a lesser known beauty existent here is Art ichol. Art Ichol is everything one can imagine and more. A stunning property, with lush green lawns, airy rooms and a list of amazing art studios and workshops, this art retreat is irresistible. The best part about Art Ichol is that you don’t need a specific purpose to be here. Customize your stay as you please. Be it for collaboration, creation, inspiration, workation or just relaxation, you can have it all. Whether you’re an artist, a traveler, a backpacker or just someone looking for a getaway, you are all welcome here. From painting, sculpting, metal welding, writing, embroidery, pottery or even gardening, you’ll find something to do in every corner.
Craft Village, Delhi
Craft Village is another splendid artist retreat located in our capital city. It is a platform established for the integration, training and promotion of local artisans and upper segment artists and craftsmen. Artists from various disciplines meet here to share their knowledge and work. It is also a budding platform for filmmakers, graphic designers and fashion designers to experiment and collaborate. Craft Village provides workshops, studios and mini amphitheaters for the artists to indulge in their work. It also hosts a number of art festivals and exhibitions throughout the year. Craft Village has been a great initiative to connect underrated artisans to modern consumers, brands, industries and craft patrons. It has also encouraged and supported budding talents, promoted traditional crafts and been on the go with innovative approaches to art.
KYTA, Himachal Pradesh (Specialized Artist Retreat)
What can be more beautiful than and peaceful than the creation of art among the beautiful Himalayas? Karma Yatri Travel & Art Residency is a niche 1 month collaborative art programme situated in the Kalga Valley at Himachal Pradesh. This programme is an experimental venture where 10 ten artists are invited to collaborate and create a stunning piece of art by the end of their 30 day stay. This initiative allows the specialized integration of cultures and varied schools of art while the artists work and enjoy together. The idea of this art village is to see how artists of different disciplines can integrate to create something of value. Moreover, the simplicity and natural beauty of the village adds to the exhilarating experience of partaking in this programme.
India has a long drawn history with art. It is amazing to see the kind of interest and encouragement artists receive today. These amazing artist retreats add to the whole rollercoaster ride of being a creator and enthusiast. In conclusion, every, artist, traveler and art lover must make their way to these fabulous retreats to help push their horizons, network with each other, collaborate and co-create and get inspired by the presence of such magnificent art.
