Joya: AiR / Oriele Steiner / GBR

“My experience at Joya: AiR was truly unforgettable. It was a much-needed escape that allowed me to fully embrace my artistic freedom and explore without any limitations. One of the highlights was working with the clay from the landscape, which led me to create my first sculptures. It was a liberating experience to shape and mold the clay into tangible works of art.

I also found solace in the stillness of nature, which was a stark contrast to the busy streets of London. I would spend hours walking, taking in the serenity and tranquility of the mountains. Being surrounded by such breathtaking scenery and a supportive community of talented artists was incredibly inspiring. It encouraged me to push the boundaries of my practice and explore new artistic directions.

Donna and Simon, the hosts of Joya: AiR, were warm and welcoming. They not only shared their artistic processes and journey with us, but also treated us to some of the most delicious food I've ever tasted! Their generosity and hospitality added to the overall experience and made it even more special.

The residency allowed me to experiment with new materials and techniques, which refreshed my artistic practice. I feel invigorated and motivated to incorporate the new ideas and inspiration I gained from Joya: AiR into my current work. It's exciting to think about how my art will evolve as a result of this enriching experience”.

Oriele Steiner

Oriele Steiner is a painter based in London, UK. She received her BFA from the University of Brighton and completed the Turps Banana Correspondence Course in 2022. After graduating, Oriele was chosen to part of Bloomberg New Contemporaries and then rewarded a residency with them in Liverpool.