My first Artist Residency

Hello, My name is Andrea B. Willems, I’m a life long artist. After going through art school at The School of The Art Institute of Chicago nearly 20 years ago, I have kept a steady art practice, but have never had a Residency experience. I’ve been the owner of two food businesses, lived in five different states, worked for a non-profit, did grass roots organizing, lived & worked full time on a farm, been a chef and have lived a slew of lives where my art practice has continued, but was never my main focus. Covid changed that, while the world slowed down I was able to focus my time & efforts on painting. For the last year I started a small craft business in my hometown, on top of painting to pay the bills & to be a part of a community of makers. I was speechless when reading my acceptance letter to Chateau Orquevaux, in Orquevaux, France the day before my 42nd Birthday. I wave of shock and disbelief turned excitement and joy for a dream that has always lived in me, but never had a chance to be lived out.

Chateau Orquevaux is an internationally awarded artists' and writers residency where only 20% of applicants that apply are accepted. This is a massive opportunity and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to focus on my artistic practice fully for four weeks and travel abroad to do so. More information can be found at https://www.chateauorquevaux.com

I've been generously awarded the Denis Diderot grant which covers around $1600 of the total cost of the residency. The residency will cost (meals, studio space, and bedroom) close to $5,400 after the grant is applied. This does not include the cost of the flights ($1300), required travel insurance ($300), ground transportation, art supplies, or covering bills ($800) while I’m away. Your donations will both, help get me there physically, but also help me be insured, put supplies in my hand, keep a roof over my head, & make a dream come true.

If interested you can view my work at www.andreabwillems.com

I also have a Patreon where I’ve been sharing my art practice and will continue to share every step of this life changing experience at https://www.patreon.com/andreabwillems

I am still in shock of this amazing opportunity being presented to me and looking forward to this tremendous experience with your help.