Joya: AiR / Nicola Breach / Fine Art MFA / Manchester School of Art Postgraduate Residency

‘The Joya: AiR residency has been a delight allowing space and time to develop my practice in surprising new ways. I quickly settled into this peaceful and unique environment, developing a personal connection to the land and in turn nourishing my art practice. I explored the area with a series of walking, meditation and drawing exercises. Climbing high in the cool morning air to get a sense of the unique natural park geography. I made charcoal and paint from pigments collected from the land and then further developed art pieces back in one of the spacious studios.

The week at Joya: AiR has been a one of a kind creative and learning opportunity. Hosted by Simon and Donna who have opened my eyes to a way of life that is off-grid and sustainable in the Sierra Maria-Los Vélez Natural Park.

Simon Beckmann27 March 2023