It’s no surprise that countless artists have been inspired by the natural beauty of southern France. You’re surrounded by undulating vineyards, shady olive groves, dazzling sunflowers and fresh-scented lavender. Imagine spending a few weeks here at an international artist residency in Provence, as the golden sunshine and stunning landscapes seep into your soul, boosting your creativity.
Whether you’re an artist, photographer or any creative type, you’ll know that inspiration can flow freely when you’re in the right place, in a space where you can feel completely at ease, so you can relax enough to let go and let the muse move you. If you have ever dreamed of being in a space where all you need to do is simply open up and create, then this little corner of Provence may well be your dream come true.
An idyllic setting
Tucked away inland from the Côte d’Azur, the rural village of Velleron (5 miles from the beautiful town of l’Isle-sur-ls-Sorge), is as charming as a film set, with historic buildings, a 12th-century castle and a famous local market. Five minutes from this traditional Provençal village you’ll find La Fontaine, a unique holiday home that has been designed with artists in mind – the rooms are spacious and filled with light, the décor is fresh and welcoming, and the furnishings are authentic and comfortable. You’ll have the inspiration from the surrounding countryside, the tranquillity of a peaceful, contemplative location and the comfort of a home from home where the only thing you need to do is to tune in to your creativity.
Whether you’re a painter, writer, photographer or musician, this part of France is an endless source of inspiration and delight. Walk through the vineyards, listen to the birdsong, watch the sunrise over the lavender fields or simply stroll through one of the many ancient, picturesque villages nearby: this is a timeless landscape that pulls you in and fills you with calm energy.
International artist residency in Provence
La Fontaine is the brainchild of Raina Stinson, an award-winning American photographer who has lived in this part of France since 2018, drawn by Provence’s unique light and stunning natural beauty. As well as hosting photography workshops, Raina has designed a holiday home that is a haven of relaxation where you can work in undisturbed peace.
What artist or writer hasn’t wished for their own little pied à terre, a hideaway in a foreign land where they could forget all the everyday stresses and live in a bubble of creating? This is La Fontaine: a comfortable retreat in the countryside of southern France, a place where you can escape for weeks at a time, unwinding and enjoying the simpler, slower pace of life.
Set in secluded grounds, the cottage has two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, its own private entrance and courtyard, plus air-conditioning. There’s also a veranda with fantastic light, making it ideal for use as a studio, and there is also a pool, perfect for cool dips.
Imagine waking up to the sound of the birds in the trees, opening the shutters on your windows to be greeted by the soft morning breeze and the early warmth of the day, padding through to the little kitchen where you can prepare your first coffee or tea to start your day, then stepping into the courtyard so you can sip your drink in the shade or the sunshine, taking the time to contemplate the day ahead. There’s no rush, there are no outside pressures and your time is your own: set up your equipment when you’re ready, get into the flow and lose yourself for hours at a time – this is the ideal place.
Whether you come alone, with a partner, or with a fellow creative, La Fontaine offers comfortable accommodation where you’ll feel at home straight away. And the gentle pace of life in the French countryside will certainly help you to tune in to your values and priorities, taking the time to notice your surroundings and to nourish all your senses.
Guidance from a fellow artist
Being in a place designed for creative spirits makes a huge difference to let the inspiration flow, particularly as you can call on your host, Raina, for inside info. Having lived here for many years, she can offer advice on the quaint local villages that will meet your creative needs, the most stunning viewpoints for photography and the best times of day to catch the light in a particular landscape.
“We provide all our visiting artists with a list of the best places to visit that will boost their creativity,” explains Raina, “and I can also connect artists with other creatives and professionals in the area, including local French models who are bilingual. For those who would like to learn more about photography, I can offer an additional service of mentoring, day tours and photo-review sessions; and for those who simply want to retreat and immerse themselves in this beautiful setting to enjoy the creative process, you will have all the space and time you need.”
Gift yourself with the space to create
If you’re reading this and thinking how wonderful it would be to spend a few weeks in such a setting, and being your very own artist in residence at La Fontaine, the information you need is right here: rainastinsonphotography.com/lafontaine
