Totems of Connection: A 7-Day Artist Residency

This proposal outlines a plan to host a small-scale artist residency in our guesthouse -Daravand, located in Dilijan, bringing together seven talented artists for seven days to create unique totems for each room. These totems, infused with artistic expression, cultural storytelling, and environmental mindfulness, will enhance the guesthouse's ambiance while fostering connections among artists, guests, and the local community. Additionally, seven local young artists will visit and actively participate in the creative process, enriching their skills and contributing fresh perspectives.
The residency aims to:
1. Celebrate artistic creativity by providing artists with an immersive environment to craft room-specific totems.
2. Cultivate a sense of place and identity within the guesthouse by embedding symbolic and culturally inspired art into its design.
3. Engage the local community and inspire young talent through collaborative opportunities and workshops.

Residency Structure:
• Participants: 7 resident artists from diverse disciplines (sculptors, painters) and 7 local young artists as collaborators.
• Duration: 7 days
• Output: Each artist creates one totem inspired by the room’s unique character and the cultural or natural surroundings, with input and participation from local youth.
• Engagement: Open studio sessions, workshops, and discussions will encourage interaction between artists, the local community, and guests.
Benefits for the Community:
1. Cultural Enrichment:
o Totems rooted in local history, traditions, and ecology will celebrate cultural identity and educate guests.
o Open sessions will provide insights into artistic processes.
2. Youth Empowerment:
o Local young artists will gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to professional artistic practices.
3. Economic Impact:
o Enhanced guesthouse visibility, attracting cultural tourism.
4. Sustainability Awareness: