La Napoule Art Foundation, France
La Napoule Art Foundation offers Artists-In-Residence a unique environment of interdisciplinary collaboration and creativity at the Château de La Napoule.
In an effort to preserve Henry and Marie Clews’ lifelong commitment to the arts, the Foundation promotes exceptional talents -- both recognized and emerging -- on the international scene, through cooperation with major organizations and leaders in the arts worldwide.
Location
The Chateau de LaNapoule is located in the historic seaside town of Mandelieu-La Napoule on the French Riviera. Situated on a spectacular site overlooking the sea, the building dates to the 14th Century and is recognized as a Monument Historique for its incredible restoration and architectural details. The former home of early 20th Century American sculptor, Henry Clews and his architect wife, Marie, it is now a museum housing Clews’ atelier and work, an impressive collection of 19th Century Clews’ Staffordshire Pottery, and additional galleries for hosting exhibits. The six acres of magnificent gardens surrounding the property have been honored as a Jardin Remarquable. Set within this walled compound is the sunny Belle Epoque Villa Marguerite. This mansion, located just across the gardens from the beaches, was the former home of the Austrian Princess of Pless. The Chateau, the walled gardens, and the historic village are inspirational settings for artists of all disciplines. The climate and the incredible light of this region have attracted artists for centuries. Nearby are the Maeght Foundation and the Matisse Chapel. Museums dedicated to Matisse, Chagall, Picasso, Renoir, and Leger among others, are within a short distance. Just a few steps from the front gate of the Chateau, bus and train service is available which connects to the many historic and cultural sites of the Cote de’Azur: Monte Carlo, Nice, Cannes, and walled villages of the Feudal Era which have become artists’ colonies.
The La Napoule Art Foundation seeks applications at two levels: a) artists of national or international distinction, with well-established reputations, for whom a change of scenery might offer fresh inspiration; b) emerging artists with a record of solid achievement and potential, for whom an appointment as a Resident Artist might contribute to professional advancement.
Facilities & Services
Housing: Private bedroom in a shared housing facility
Residents are housed in private rooms in both the Chateau and Villa Marguerite, most with private bathrooms.
Meals: Some meals are provided
Mealtimes are seen as opportunities to build community, develop friendships, and to share ideas and experiences. Meals are served in the Villa Marguerite dining room or the Chateau’s Gothic dining room. Breakfast is served daily; lunch and dinner are served Monday through Friday. On weekends residents have access to the Villa kitchen and are within an easy walk of numerous restaurants and cafes in the village of La Napoule.
Computer/internet access: Computer and internet connection provided in common area (shared), Wireless Internet
As historic buildings, the Chateau and the Villa are not handicap accessible. They have been adapted to meet fire and safety codes.
Studios/special equipment: Music studio (non-recording)
Additional studio information:
Each resident is provided with individual studio space. Studios are located throughout the estate and are assigned according to the differing needs of the residents. If applicants have specific requirements for their studio space, these needs should be addressed with the staff in advance. All equipment and materials are the responsibility of the artist and are not supplied by the foundation. Although most composers today use media equipment for their work, one space is available with a studio piano if required. Writers are commonly assigned a single room in which to live and work. These are generously sized rooms with a view of the Mediterranean.
Other facilities and services: Because of the historic nature of the facilities, smoking is not permitted in any of the buildings on the museum property. Residents are responsible for their own transportation and costs. They will be picked up at the Nice airport or the train station upon arrival by a Chateau staff member. The Chateau is located in the town of Mandelieu-LaNaoule, exit 40 on the A8 highway. Off street parking can be provided for cars. Public bus service is available. Regional trains stop at the La Napoule Train Station, across the street from the Château. They connect to national and international service in Nice. The international Nice-Cote d’Azur Airport is 30 minutes by car from the Chateau.