Fernanda Ferrari, Multidisciplinary Artist
Resident, Summer 2024
“This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to be part of an Artist Residency in France, a partnership between La Devignère and Mother Tongues Ireland, I spent two weeks immersed in their beautiful space, meeting artists from around the world, sharing experiences, and taking the time to develop ideas for exciting new projects.
The experience of being in an Artist Residency was invaluable to me. During this time, I created new puppets using materials I found in my surroundings, and I engaged with wonderful young people from the village. The result was a pilot video for a YouTube channel I intend to develop in partnership with Mother Tongues. Additionally, some photos I took with my puppets in La Devignère are now featured in the new Wexford Women’s Refuge building.”
Choy-Ping Ní Chléirigh-Ng 吳彩萍, theatre maker and designer of set, costume and video.
Resident, Summer 2022
“I spent a month on residency at La Devignère in the summer of 2022, while writing a theatre piece titled WINDOW A WORLD. It was a joyous time with Zoë and Alain as kind hosts who made sure I felt welcome, comfortable and nourished, in all senses of the word. From the moment I arrived, Zoë and Alain ensured that I had not only the physical space to work but also a sense of creative freedom. They took time to understand my needs as an artist and ensured I was able to help my process thrive. It was refreshing to be in a place where being an artist was understood and supported in such a genuine way.
The house and its surroundings are totally picturesque, making it the perfect place to focus on writing. There was a vital balance between productivity and relaxation. The pace of life allowed me to settle into my own rhythm, unburdened by external pressures. I was able to explore ideas more fully than I usually do. When I needed solitude to work, I could find it easily, while the communal rhythm of our days added structure. Weekly excursions to the market brought new inspiration, as did swimming in a nearby river, especially in the midst of creative work. Dinners shared together were a highlight for me, with delicious meals and meaningful conversations that brought everyone together. I felt connected and uplifted.
Looking back, my time at La Devignère is definitely woven into WINDOW A WORLD. Its quiet introspection and meditative nature owe so much to this residency. I can’t imagine a better environment to nurture both the work and the artist in such a holistic way. I would definitely return and recommend it to anyone seeking a peaceful place for a residency.”
Adrienne N. Wartts, Writer
Resident, Summer 2024
“The La Devignère Residency in Lussac, France is an advantageous setting for artists who seek serenity. The beautifully restored 15th-century, castle-style house offers picturesque views of nature and serves as a haven for self-directed artists to concentrate on their craft. In addition to having my own writing and living space, the common areas created opportunities to commune, collaborate, and be inspired by artists of all disciplines. During my time as a resident, I was able to focus on a nonfiction literary project and benefit from the skills and expertise of other artists who kindly took interest in my work. In addition to time to write, network, and research, the setting gave me the opportunity to dedicate time to another nonfiction project, which is now being pitched for publication—-thanks to my time at La Devignère residency.”
