La Maison de Beaumont

I would not recommend this residency to visual artists seeking a functional studio environment. It felt more like an Airbnb marketed toward artists rather than a residency genuinely designed to support artistic work. The studio space was not conducive to my practice, primarily due to the lack of appropriate natural light and working space. I did not request alternative accommodation because the other options I saw also appeared unsuitable in terms of lighting. Additionally, in my opinion the images used to represent the studio space at the time of booking did not accurately reflect the reality of sharing the space with the number of artists that were there, at least during my visit; Upon arrival, other artists were discussing availability of space/making space for others and the studio felt over-crowded. Overall, the space and experience felt to me as though it had been designed for artists without a real understanding of artists’ practical needs or working processes. I chose mainly to do field work and get what I could out of it. The village and surrounds are beautiful and I enjoyed meeting a couple other artists who live and work there.

As another reviewer mentioned, this was a very isolating experience. If you don't have your own transportation, you can start to feel trapped—and there's so much natural beauty in the area that you miss out on because you're just stuck. The art studio is quite small. When I was there, another artist basically took up the whole thing with enormous canvases, so I didn't get to use the area. Each completed piece I posted was met with a message from the owner telling me they hoped to receive something "as beautiful" at the end of my stay—it felt like they were constantly reminding me that I owed them a piece of art for the residency. I will add that the apartment was lovely, and I enjoyed all of the village cats, but I wouldn't return here.

Beaumont provided a beautiful backdrop to indulge in art. The tranquility of provincial life and quiet pace was refreshing. Although La Maison de Beaumont was isolating at times. The rural location made accessing neighbouring towns / supermarkets and supply stores challenging. A lack of public transport and support on site made the experience very solitary. I’d advise having your own transport. Purchasing art supplies and groceries before arriving at the residency. Having a clear outline of work you’d like to engage in as the residency is without structure / both a positive and a negative depending on your expectations!