Joya: AiR / Andrea Mindell Cohen / ESP

‘Upon my arrival to Joya-AiR I discovered another realm where I found solitude and was able to disconnect from my distractions with an abundance of time to focus on my practice. The return to Andalucía the land of mi madre where I spent a portion of my childhood, could have not been more of a sign I needed to complete the rest of my healing journey.

Pure alegria!

I connected with the land by observing, listening and just being present in the moment to the natural surroundings, its serenity made me feel peace and calmness that I was missing in my daily chaotic life in Barcelona.

Joya is an ideal place to get out of your head, center yourself like pushing a reset button. Working, strolling outdoors in the fresh cold air routinely, healed my body, soul and awoke sleepy ideas. I can´t forget to mention my cozy chimney-fire studio space with its spectacular sunset vistas beyond the mountains. Where I spent most of my days working happily.

I;

· observed a full moon-set at sunrise

· walked through the forest

· collected treasures

· built fires in my studio

· drank vino

· ate delicious dinners

· met amazing, talented artists

· felt the presence of madre earth

· worked with new mediums

· created new artwork.

Thank you, Donna and Simon for this incredible eco-sustainable residency, your passions and support of the imaginations and creations of many artists from around the planet. Most of all a hospitality beyond and above!!’

Andrea Mindell Cohen