Programs / Residency Applications / Notifications / Workshops / Opportunities
Program
In the title of our residency program, the word "exchange" isn't just a term; it's a vibrant promise, a dynamic force that
propels your artistic journey to new heights. Here's why the word "exchange" takes center stage and sets our
program apart:
- Creative Fusion: This isn't your ordinary residency; it's a dynamic exchange of ideas, perspectives, and
artistic energies! Picture a melting pot of diverse talents, each bringing a unique flavor to the creative
cauldron. It's not just about what you'll learn; it's about the electrifying exchange of creativity that happens
when brilliant minds collide.
- Cultural Crossroads: Prepare to be immersed in a rich tapestry of cultures. Our residency isn't just about
your art; it's about exchanging cultural nuances, traditions, and experiences. Connect with fellow artists from
around the globe, creating a mosaic of inspiration that transcends borders.
- Knowledge Swap: This isn't a one-way street; it's a two-way highway of knowledge! Our program fosters an
environment where artists share insights, techniques, and skills. Imagine the thrill of learning a new
technique from a fellow resident and, in turn, sharing your artistic wizardry—it's an exchange that elevates
everyone.
- Life-Changing Connections: The exchange isn't confined to your art—it extends to lifelong connections.
Forge friendships that endure beyond the studio walls. The residency becomes a nexus, a meeting point
where artists form bonds that inspire and support each other long after the program concludes.
So, why is "exchange" in our title? Because this isn't just a residency; it's a whirlwind of creativity, culture, and
connections. Get ready for an artistic exchange that will redefine the way you create and connect to the world.
The program is flexible,1 week to 3 months, with preference, and price-break, for longer stays. Groups are
encouraged. The studio is fully equipped with 1 large high-fire electric kiln, wheels, tables, tools, underglazes, glaze making materials and a clear glaze. Other arts can be accommodated. We can create a space for exhibition as work
develops. Four clays are available to purchase prior to arrival, and all subsequent visits to suppliers can be arranged.
All artists have available assistance in any area they need. Artists are free to work at their leisure.
Private lessons and individually designed courses are available for an additional charge. Clay and firings are sold
separately.
Application Process
Residency Application
See Contact Page to send your message or questions! Contact
Residencies of 1 week to 3 months are available. There is a price break for the 2 and 3 Month Residency. For ceramic residency a 3 week residency is suggested as a minimum to complete work to be able to ship.
For all Residencies, please send the following:
- A brief statement of intention
- Resume/ CV
- 4-6 images or website
- Requested dates
Group - If applying as a group: brief statement of request/intention, with members names, 4 images or website and Requested dates
Weekly residency: Send me your request or idea and requested dates
There is a price break for the 2- and 3- Month Residency
Structured Program Private lessons:
The structured program is available to all levels of ceramic students. The prices are for an individually designed
structure practice for 2 weeks, which has the possibility of expanding to 4 weeks. Included is the use of the studio to
practice. Clay is purchased separately.
- 2-week Beginner’s course
- 2-week course for intermediate and advanced
- Month long program available
Notification:
- Deposit fee required within 10 days of acceptance notification
- Monthly fee required 1 month in advance of start-date
- Weekly program fee due prior to start date as scheduled
- 3-Month program fee - first month due 1 month prior to start date - monthly payments for the consecutive months.
- Deposits are refundable 2 months prior to start date minus 10% fee for Residency Programs only
I am so lucky to have Lauren so close to me. As a beginner, it was such a gift to learn from Lauren's 40+
years in the industry. Right away, I felt Lauren's skills as a teacher - super patient, knowledgeable, and kind.
The environment nurtured my creativity and I progressed significantly in the month I was with her. The
studio is lovely - lots of natural light, well laid out, and clean. I already look forward to doing another
intensive or workshop with her. Highly, highly recommended.
Ivonne Sanchez
Nice, France
2022
Since my arrival here in Saint Raphael my eyes and heart have been alive with the color, architecture and life around
me. Riding my bike and wandering on foot has provided me with the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the
red rocks, aqua water and calm culture through my camera lens. Each day I have brought the spirit of this beautiful
place back to the studio and through drawing, sculpting and throwing on the wheel, clay has retold the story of my
experience here. It is not often I am able to be quiet, but I have found that the IaRex l'Atelier, with its beautiful views
and peaceful vibe is an ultimate haven for creating in nurtured solace. Best of all I am leaving with not only new work
particular to this place, but a new friendship with Lauren, a valued contributor to the ceramics community. Her
welcoming presence and knowledgeable command of the arts is a perfect balance to lead you through your stay
here.
Shanna Fliegel
2022
I spent five weeks taking ceramics classes at IaRex l'Atelier and had the most amazing time! Lauren is a natural
teacher - she was quickly able to gauge my skill level coming in and tailor my classes to what would help me improve
most. With her guidance over a few weeks I learned how to keep pieces centered; pull walls with uniform thickness;
make pieces with a specific form in mind; throw large bowls, vases, rounded forms, and jars with lids; paint with
underglazes; recycle clay; organize a studio; and so much more. Lauren was encouraging as I learned new skills,
and helped me gain a more general appreciation for the art form. Outside of classes, she always made sure that I
was doing okay with living abroad for the first time and offered her help wherever she could. Most importantly, it was
wonderful to have her company during my time there and I learned many life lessons from her that extended beyond
ceramics.
The studio is a beautiful place to create - it has lots of sunlight, is well supplied with tools, and is kept very organized
and clean. Saint Raphael was also a nice place to stay with the beach just a few minutes away and boulangeries all
around. It was really easy to take the train up and down the coast to Nice and Marseilles, and there were even direct
lines to Paris and Lyon.
I loved my first month at the studio so much that I came back again for a second set of classes, and know that as
soon as I find the time in my schedule I would like to go back again. I would highly recommend the program to
anyone looking to either improve their ceramic skills or to create with dedicated time and space in a beautiful part of
the world.
Iman Wahle
2022
In the midst of a beautiful cross-breeze, we made things out of Spanish black clay on the wheel and by hand. It just
a short time, Lauren’s studio and its surrounding town charmed its way into our hearts and for sure, we will be back
for another stay.
Anna Giocondo
2022
The ceramic studio from laRex Atelier is well equipped and has lots of space. It is the perfect place to explore new ideas and create new works. With the great support of Lauren Kearns, the host, I had a good time working and learning new things about ceramic materials. Whatever you need, she will help you with it. St. Raphael is also perfect to explore the surrounding area and get impressions of the easy French feeling in cote Azur. I hope to come back soon to this inspiring place.
Rahel Zweig
2022
The international Artist Residency Exchange in Saint Raphaël hosted by Lauren Kearns is a place where creativity
and collaboration thrives. The studio environment is spacious, well equipped and full of natural light.
The opportunity to gather and grow creatively at IARE brings artists together from all over the world to make lasting
connections. Art is alive on the Côte d’Azur. Who wouldn’t want to be there?
Michelle Gregor
2023
The International Artists Residency Exchange provides the perfect ambiance for a creative flow, with abundant
materials and expert teaching, against a backdrop of sea and sand in the charming South of France. A minutes!
Brinda Wachs
2023
Lauren’s studio brings together a phenomenal teacher - Michelle Gregor - and the most fun group of artists, keen to share and learn from each other. Laughter and artistry and a bit of work, a perfect combination...... Lauren is a great warm and kind host and a great artist. She made us feel at home immediately.
Kashka Huyton
2023
J’ai eu la chance de participer à un atelier de cinq jours conduit par Michelle Gregor au studio ‘International Artist Residency Exchange’ durant l’été 2023. Ce fût une occasion d’échanges enrichissants avec des personnes de
différents horizons dans un studio bien organisé, vaste et lumineux. Par dessus tout nous avons eu des
enseignements précieux offerts avec générosité par Madame Gregor. Malgré la courte période de cet atelier, nous
avons appris sur le modelage,la composition, le traitement des surfaces, l’harmonisation des couleurs, préparation
des pièces pour la cuisson et avons été en mesure d’effectuer une cuisson pour ramener à la maison certaines de
nos créations de la semaine!
Merci a Madame Gregor pour le partage de son art et expertise!
Merci au studio ‘International Artist Residency Exchange’ pour l’organisation de cet atelier!
Odette Devost
2023
Artists/Instructors
Bring a group of students to exchange, experience, learn and discover! The programming for IaRex l’Atelier is flexible. The space is open to workshop proposals.
Time: 3-day workshops to 1 month
I have a formula for 3 options available of creating workshop fees. Send me an email for more information about how to price your workshop!
Applications:
Send a Proposal with the following information:
- Course Title and description
- Requested dates
- Fee requirement
- Materials required
Use the Contact Page, or send an email to iare.kearns@gmail.com
Workshop Information
- All fees for all workshops are due 2 months prior to the workshop start date. A deposit of 300€ is required at
the time of sign up
- Monthly payments are accepted for Workshops only
- When you come to the IaRex l’Atelier for a workshop, you are welcomed to stay for 1 extra week for a
reduced price of 125€ a week
- Refunds available for workshop, minus a 20% fee, 2 months prior to workshop start date.
Reservation Confirmation
- When the workshop is full you will be notified. Please wait until the confirmation email and phone call to buy tickets or reserve accommodations.
- Included in workshops: Materials and firing. Weekday lunches are optional.
Additional Opportunities
In addition, the following 2.5-hour sessions
- Birthday Party
- Team Building Experience
- Working with clay
- Learn to Draw
- Private Lessons
- Wheel
- Private Course development