Residency 2016: Elisa Soliven, sculptor and JJ Manford, painter with Jonas

What was your week like with Norte Maar in Jay?

It was an incredible week and went by so quickly because we were always occupied with one activity or another: exploring the countryside, going on hikes, making art in the barn, hanging out with new friends at the Jay House, eating Norman's wonderful BBQ, tubing down the river, and taking in the surrounding mountains.

What was your most memorable part of your visit?

There are many memories, but some that stand out are: our first evening in Jay for Norman's birthday, meeting family and filling up on delicious food after a long day of traveling, and then settling into our relaxing accommodations . The campfires and ghost stories were very memorable, as well as the opening for the Jay Invitational and listening to the band perform as people danced into the wee hours under the star filled nighttime sky. Working in the enchanted barn at night, provided us with workspace and allowed us to get some concentrated work done.  All the BBQ's were memorable, wading in the Ausable river, and definitely Jonas' first hike up Owl's Head.

Anything that surprised you? Inspired you?

It was inspirational watching Jason, Norman, Julia, and Jason's father get set up for the event and work on fixing the barn. It was wonderful to watch how all of them worked together to coordinate so many different facets of the event, which brought many artists together and included so many parts, including the outdoor pit fire and raku firing, and visiting the local artists' studios during the art tour.

And how about Jonas? Was it the first time he waded in a river?

Jonas loved hiking up Owl's Head and wading in the river, as well as running free through the expansive property at the Jay House. Another great feature was the neighboring public playground, which we went to at least once a day.