Amy Stephens is one of this year's recipients of the Joya: AiR arts and ecology residency in Almería, Spain. Joya: AiR is an arts residency developed by artists for artists of every conceivable discipline. Not only a unique, stimulating, and contemplative enironment for international artists and writers, Joya: AiR acts as a meeting point for divergent and creative thinking.
The art and ecology programme is an off-grid and climate positive interdisciplinary residency since 2006 rooted in the crossroads of art, ecology and sustainable living practive. It is located in the heart of the Parque Natural Sierra María, Los Véles, in the north of the province of Almería, Andalucía. Joya: AiR offers abundant time and space for residents to make, think, explore, and learn from their surroundings.
Discussing the residency, Amy said: "Set within the Andalusian mountains, Joya arte + ecología / AiR residency is a unique place to reconnect with the landscape. The building offers 6 resident studios, accommodation for artist's, a shared kitchen and living facilities. Once settled, the reality of being at least a 30-minute drive from anyone, except local farmers, is slightly disconcerting but also liberating. Using pen and oil sticks, I spent time drawing the exquisite views, collecting objects from my immediate surroundings and visiting the local marble quarry. This residency enabled me to refocus my thoughts, to question how I connect with space, to be consumed by nature and to live more sustainably. "
You can learn more about Joya: AiR's programme on their website.
