As cheesy as may sound, it went something like this... I watched the entire season of 'Emily in Paris', on Netflix. Of course, I loved it so much that I wondered for a minute... How can I bring an experience like that into my own reality?
I went straight to Google and started researching some options! I found an Artist-in-Residence at Château d’Orquevaux in Champagne-Ardenne, France! They had just opened their submission process. Fate? I was actually following their work for quite some time on Instagram, so the idea must have been already stored in my mind.
Following my gut, I dug a little deeper and loved their concept and it began to feel like the experience was already happening to me. As part of the application process, I did my homework on writing about my work and why I wanted to join the residency, along with my curriculum, photos, website, and so on. Hit send... After that, I immediately saved the image of the location as the background of my phone to keep the energy alive.
After a few weeks, I found out that not only have I been accepted as an Artist-in-Residence at Chateau d’Orquevaux in France. I was also awarded a grant and my work will be a part of the chateau’s permanent collection. YAY!
Dates are still pending due to the current travel restrictions, and hopefully, soon we will arrange exact dates. Their mission is to select artists who desires to grow and continue their journey of artistic expression (Pssst, That’s me).
I watched the same video after I received the letter of approval and started crying (joyful tears). Such an emotional moment for me, to realize that I CAN DO THIS.
I don't often talk about my traumas, but I'm continuously working hard to overcome past memories from abusive relationships and never really understanding my own worth. A moment like this one, makes all my daily work on self-development so valuable and tangible.
I am excited for you to follow along, as I document the entire experience, painting, filming and writing throughout the journey.
Color Your Life!
Love, Drica