Los Talleres Artist Retreat in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, was founded by SMFA faculty member Erica Daborn and her husband, Dennis Lanson. Their vision was of a place where artists could create work in a supportive and inspiring new environment.

Museum school alumni Evan Crankshaw and Raleigh Gardiner are currently managing the retreat. As residential managers, they assist with maintenance of the retreat studios and help residents with their needs throughout their stay. Says Evan, "I've gathered so much experience and information and subconscious concepts. Anytime you enter an intensive situation where all you really have to do is work, your outlook on your practice achieves a sense of clarity. This place is perfect for that if you have the focus."

Recent artist in residence Lucia Caroll spoke of the advantages of the change of scenery: "You get a freshness from switching locations, especially internationally. It presents you with new problems to overcome: I have stepped out of my comfort zone, now how do I deal? It forces you to re-evaluate your process, and also allows you to return to your normal setting with a new view of your process."

Los Talleres is located in Mexico on a scenic hilltop outside the colonial town of San Miguel de Allende. As a longtime destination for art-loving U.S. expatriates, most standard art materials are available in town. There are numerous buildings from the 17th and 18th century as well as a large art gallery complex at the Fabrica Aurora. San Miguel de Allende possesses a safe and unique creative atmosphere, promising a truly inspiring place to work. As Evan elaborates, "There are 250 holidays a year, so there's almost always something going on—bullfights, art openings, concerts, parades and fireworks in town; in the country, there's wildlife, gardens, villages, archeological sites, a zoo, graveyards...infinite possibilities for exploration."

The retreat is located on a country road close to several thermal hot springs and a water park, and provides magnificent undisturbed views over the countryside. There are three contemporary light-flooded live-in studios of approximately 450 sq feet with 16-ft high ceilings. Each studio has a sleep loft above the workspace and all have their own shower and toilet. Adjacent to the studios is a communal kitchen/living area where artists can prepare their own meals. Amenities include Wi-Fi internet, a Vonage phone (free calls to and from the US), TV and DVD player, gas stove, refrigerator and washing machine.

Los Talleres offers perhaps the most valuable gift for one's practice—the gift of time. Evan says, "It's pretty evident how useful a change of environment or an immersion in a new place/culture can be. The effect of open space and proximity to nature, especially in contrast to urban dwelling, really gives you perspective, a desire to explore not just the world but your craft as well."

All professional artists including visual artists, writers and musicians are encouraged to apply. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
For more information please visit the Los Talleres Web site at www.lostalleresmx.com. To request an application please e-mail lostalleresretreat@gmail.com.