The Signy and Olaf Willums Art Foundation is a Norwegian institution named after two important artists in the history of 20th century painting in Norway. Under the stewardship of Mr. Jan-Olaf Willums, grandson to Signy and Olaf, the Foundation today supports the practice of contemporary art, both in Norway and abroad. The Residency Programme at the Willums Art Foundation has been developed by Myriam Blundell Projects and provides emerging and mid-career artists, from all countries and all disciplines, with the opportunity to live and work in the South of France for a period of time, not to exceed 6 months, between the Months of November and May of each year. Set in the rural area of Pourrières at the Mas Des Graviers, the programme aims to provide participants with:
An idyllic setting from which to develop and grow creatively, personally and professionally; and to create and perform art in seclusion and without distraction.
Encourage international contacts for artists and facilitate the exchange of ideas through practice and feedback; and to build a sense of community such that residents share time and space, and creative thoughts together.
The Mas des Graviers can accommodate up to 14 artists participating in the Winter Residency Programme. Running from November 1st to May 15th of each year, the programme hosts artists for lengths of time ranging from one week to two months, allowing a maximum number of artists to benefit from this experience. The Average stay is expected to last approximately two weeks to one month.