From Whangamatā to Chiang Mai: Finding Inspiration at an Artist Residency in Thailand

Sometimes you just have to pack your paints, jump on a plane and see where the adventure takes you!

My recent three-week artist residency in Chiang Mai, Thailand, was exactly that — an opportunity to step away from everyday life, immerse myself in a different culture and give myself time to make art, explore and be inspired.

A Three-Week Artist Residency in Chiang Mai

Based at Studio 88 in Chiang Mai, I was surrounded by artists from different parts of the world, each with their own stories, ideas and creative practices. There was plenty of conversation, laughter, experimentation and the inevitable sharing of those familiar “what are you working on?” moments.

Being surrounded by other creatives was a wonderful reminder of how valuable it is for artists to step outside their usual environment. A change of place can open up new ways of thinking, seeing and creating.

Finding Art Inspiration in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai itself was a huge source of inspiration. The colour, textures, markets, temples, street life and wonderful mix of old and new seemed to provide ideas around every corner.

I loved visiting local galleries, exhibitions and art spaces, seeing how artists in Thailand approach their work and discovering new ways of looking at my own artistic practice.

There was something incredibly inspiring about simply slowing down, observing my surroundings and allowing myself to be curious.

The People, Culture and Thai Hospitality

And then there was the Thai hospitality — incredibly warm, generous and welcoming.

I made new friends and connections that made the residency feel like much more than simply an opportunity to create art. Sharing ideas and experiences with other artists from around the world became just as important as the time spent in the studio.

For me, an artist residency is about getting out of your comfort zone. It’s about being curious, meeting people, seeing new places and allowing unexpected ideas to creep into your work.

Bringing Chiang Mai Inspiration Home

I came home to Whangamatā and Kea iti Studio with a head full of ideas, a suitcase full of treasures and textures, and plenty of inspiration waiting to find its way into my next pieces.

My time in Chiang Mai has given me new experiences, new perspectives and a renewed sense of excitement about where my art might go next.

Who knows where the next adventure will be?