Nashik, India·Cabin / Cottage
130 Awata is a creative retreat and ceramics residency by the lake
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Awatian
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4p96KF7QmPgoHv9U6, India
130 Awata – Lakeside Creative Retreat & Artist Residency
Apply by
November 10, 2026
Cost
Contact host for pricing
Disciplines
All disciplines
Duration
2 weeks to 6 weeks
Accommodation
Private cottage and Shared cottage
Availability
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
About this opportunity
The space
The space 130 Awata is an independent creative space nestled in a rural landscape beside Lake Vaitarna, near Trimbakeshwar in Nashik, Maharashtra. Built from the ground up in collaboration with the local tribal community, Awata has evolved into a place where art, ecology, material exploration and community living come together. At its heart is a ceramics studio and a wood-fired kiln, surrounded by open spaces, natural landscapes and simple, thoughtfully created accommodation. The space welcomes artists, makers, curious travellers and anyone looking to step away from the pace of everyday life. For artists, it offers room to work, experiment and develop ideas at their own pace. For other guests, it offers an opportunity to experience pottery, spend time in nature and discover the pleasures of slow living. Awata is not a conventional resort or a structured retreat. It is an evolving creative environment where making, learning, sharing and simply being are equally valued.
Surroundings
Located near Trimbakeshwar in the Nashik region of Maharashtra, 130 Awata is set in a quiet rural landscape close to Lake Vaitarna. The surroundings offer a welcome change from city life: open skies, changing light, hills, village paths and the quiet presence of water. It is a landscape best experienced slowly, through walks, conversations, observation and time outdoors. The location is suited to those who enjoy nature and a little distance from the usual conveniences and distractions of urban life. Awata is accessible by road from Nashik and Mumbai. We recommend planning your journey in advance and coordinating with us before arrival for the best route and local travel guidance.
Life during a stay
Life at 130 Awata follows a gentle, unhurried rhythm. Mornings might begin with a walk, a cup of tea and breakfast. The day can unfold in the studio, outdoors or simply in the quiet corners of the property. Wholesome, home-style meals bring everyone together, while evenings are often spent sharing conversations, watching the changing light or looking at the stars. Guests can spend time exploring the landscape, reading, relaxing or trying their hand at pottery through arranged sessions. Artists have access to shared creative facilities, including the ceramics studio. Wood-fired kiln experiences and firing participation are organised according to the firing calendar and technical requirements. There is no pressure to follow a fixed schedule. We encourage guests to find their own rhythm, make time for themselves and engage with the place in ways that feel natural.
What the artist will do
Artists at 130 Awata are encouraged to pursue independent projects, research and experimentation in response to their own creative interests and the possibilities of the place. The residency offers an opportunity to explore the relationship between material, process, landscape and community. Artists may work with clay, sculpture, painting, photography, textiles, installation, natural materials or interdisciplinary practices. With a ceramics studio and wood-fired kiln on site, there is a particular opportunity to investigate clay, form, surface, glaze, ash, fire and the unpredictable outcomes of wood firing. Artists may also explore themes of ecology, rural life, local knowledge, material culture and the relationship between humans and their natural surroundings. There is no prescribed theme or expected final outcome. We value experimentation, exchange and the freedom to follow an idea wherever the process leads. Artists are welcome to develop existing projects or use their time at Awata to begin something entirely new.
House rules
House Rules – 130 Awata 130 Awata is a shared creative and living space. We ask all residents and guests to respect the people, place, facilities and natural surroundings that make it special. 1. Respect for the space Please treat the accommodation, studio, equipment and common areas with care. Keep shared spaces clean and organised. Please inform the host of any damage or maintenance concerns. 2. Shared living Be considerate of other residents and guests, particularly during early mornings and evenings. Respect everyone's personal space, working hours and creative process. Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Visitors are permitted only with prior approval. 3. Studio and kiln safety Studio access and equipment use are subject to orientation and approval. Please follow all safety instructions when working with clay, tools, machinery and materials. Wood-fired kiln operations are supervised and restricted to authorised participants. Do not operate the kiln, burners or other equipment without permission. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear in workshop areas. Keep combustible materials away from firing areas. 4. Nature and surroundings Please respect the lake, surrounding landscape, trees, wildlife and local community. Do not litter or leave waste outdoors. Avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging plants. Swimming or entering the lake is only permitted with prior approval and when conditions are considered safe. 5. Meals and common areas Meals are served at agreed timings. Please inform us in advance about dietary requirements or allergies. Help us maintain a clean and welcoming shared dining environment. 6. Community and local culture We encourage respectful and sensitive interaction with the local community. Please seek permission before photographing or filming local residents. Be mindful of local customs and the privacy of others.
Good to know
30 Awata is a living, evolving space. It is shaped by the people who visit, the work that happens here and our ongoing relationship with the surrounding community and landscape. We value simplicity, mutual respect, curiosity and an openness to learning from one another. Guests should be comfortable with a rural setting, shared spaces and a more mindful pace of living. We welcome individuals, couples, small groups and creative practitioners. Whether you come to make something, learn something or simply take a pause, we hope you leave with a meaningful experience of the place. A part of our larger vision is to make creative learning more accessible to children in nearby government schools through our community education initiative.
Practical details
Duration
2 weeks to 6 weeks
Accommodation
Private cottage and Shared cottage, both options are available
Program notes
130 Awata Artist Residency is a self-funded, independent residency programme designed to offer artists time, space and an environment for focused creative exploration. The programme runs from 1 March to 31 May 2027, welcoming up to six artists at a time for flexible stays ranging from two to eight weeks. The residency is open to emerging and established artists across disciplines, including ceramics, sculpture, painting, photography, textiles, installation and interdisciplinary practices. What the residency offers Accommodation in a peaceful rural setting. Three wholesome meals a day. Individual workspace and access to a shared ceramics studio. Opportunities for material research and experimentation. Scheduled communal wood-fired kiln firings, subject to capacity and the firing calendar. Informal interaction and exchange with fellow artists. Time to explore the surrounding landscape and engage with the local context. Working rhythm The residency is self-directed. Artists are free to organise their working days according to their individual practice. There are no compulsory workshops, classes or predetermined outcomes. Informal studio gatherings, material exchanges and opportunities to share work may take place during the residency. Participation in these activities is encouraged but not mandatory. Wood-fired ceramics Artists interested in ceramics can participate in scheduled communal firings. Firing access, loading space and technical requirements are discussed in advance. Additional materials, specialist tools, shipping and extra firing costs are not included in the residency fee. Programme and fees This is a self-funded residency. Artists are responsible for their residency fee and travel arrangements. The fee covers accommodation, meals and the facilities specified in the programme. A meaningful part of the residency's vision extends beyond the studio: 25% of residency revenue is committed to supporting creative and pottery education for children
What's offered
Accommodation
Studio Space
Meals
Kitchen Access
WiFi
Laundry
Parking
Skills needed
Painting
Drawing
Illustration
Sculpture
Photography
Installation
Mixed Media
Ceramics
Woodwork
Poetry
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