Open Studio Night !!!
Workday 18/04/2025
Today marked the much-anticipated Open Studio Day an evening that the entire Château team and artists had been working tirelessly toward. With the event scheduled for the evening, I made the most of the morning by diving back into the Lover’s Garden renovations. There was a strong sense of momentum as we successfully planted three out of the four flower beds, leaving just one to complete in the coming days.
It was a proud moment for the entire team, a real testament to the patience, cooperation and shared commitment that have carried this garden’s transformation. Every small placement of a plant felt purposeful, and I found myself reflecting on how even the most intricate parts of a design come together through collaboration and intention.
After completing the outdoor work, I rushed back inside with excitement the clear laminate table cover had arrived! This small yet impactful addition was a personal design solution I had proposed to preserve the beauty of the newly introduced wooden table while ensuring it remained practical for everyday use. Seeing the final result, a combination of elegance and durability brought me a quiet sense of pride. It reminded me of how thoughtful, adaptable design can enhance daily experiences without compromising visual harmony. The kitchen felt more complete, more lived-in, and more prepared for the evening ahead.
With the interior and garden tasks checked off, I turned my focus to the artists. I spent the afternoon documenting their work-in-progress, helping to calm their nerves and remind them just how powerful their pieces were. In many ways, I felt like a steadying presence, offering support and encouragement and making sure each artist felt seen.
As 6:30 PM approached, I changed into a red and black embroidered dress, something that captured the energy and creativity of the artists and reflected the spirit of the Château itself. Open Studio nights are some of my favourite moments during the residency. They’re not only a celebration of artistic dedication, but also an opportunity for me to develop my interpersonal skills in both English and French, meet new people, and reflect on the growth I’ve experienced during my time here.
The night unfolded like a beautiful tapestry of conversation, creativity and connection. I found myself not just networking and engaging in professional discussions, but also forming meaningful personal bonds that I believe will last far beyond the walls of the Château.
One of the most touching moments came at the very end of the night, gathered around the fire with the artists, exchanging stories, laughter and reflections. In that warm glow, I realised how much this residency had become a family. Storytelling, collaboration and mutual support have been at the core of this experience, and tonight was the perfect closing chapter to a transformative and fulfilling week.