"To encourage artistic inquiry in Natimuk and the Wimmera."

 

Come to the Wimmera, a landscape that has inspired such renowned painters as Nicholas Chevalier, Arthur Boyd, Sidney Nolan, Jill Orr and Phillip Hunter, and writers including Gerald Murnane . It is a place that continues to inspire artists, including Yspace, Transience, Anthony Pelchen, Mary French and other artists associated with the Nati Frinj Biennale. 

It is a landscape of big skies, rugged mountains, inspirational salt lakes and striking grain fields.

It is a land where the Wotjobaluk, Wergaia, Jupagulk, Jaadwadjali and Jaadwaa people lived for many  thousands of years. The clan that lived here were the Djurite Balug.

The residency in a modest house in the town of Natimuk, close to the amazing Djurite (Mt Arapiles). The mountain is a world renowned climbing area and attracts international rock-climbers, many who have moved into town, giving Natimuk a cosmopolitan feel unusual in small Australian towns.

Natimuk has its own Biennale arts festival, which has a focus on new work and the residency gives you the opportunity to meet, collaborate or be inspired by these very welcoming artists and the friendly community. http://natifrinj.com

The residency is owned by artist Dr Greg Pritchard who has had residencies in Australia, Africa and Asia and appreciates how useful it is to have a great space in which to think and make art.

 

"I found the Natimuk Exile artist residency a haven. In particular for artists looking to connect deeply within nature as it offered both moments of quiet reflection and bursts of creative energy. With its unique blend of desert-like terrain, lakes and river systems, I found the diversity of landscapes a source of artistic inspiration. The Natimuk residency encouraged me to consider new perspectives, providing both tranquility and challenge in equal measure. This artist residency is not just about producing art but about drawing from the land’s inherent and diverse contrasts to spark new and creative ideas.

Natimuk Exile is located at the edge of the Grampians National Park, and the residency offered an immersive experience as it is surrounded by a striking landscape. The area, renowned for its diverse natural attractions, is a perfect canvas for creative exploration. The nearby salt lakes and the sparse, sun-scorched desert environment evokes a sense of solitude and timelessness. The shimmering salt flats, in particular, presented an almost surreal quality, contrasting sharply with the rugged beauty of the Grampians mountains in the distance and provided much inspiration for en plein air and in studio work."

Michael Ambriano

 

‘I’ve always loved staying at Greg’s place. The house, the town of Natimuk, and the surrounding area come together to create an atmosphere that allows me to do my best work. From the sunsets on the veranda to waking at dawn to the birds, I have some great memories of my time spent there, and thank Greg for making such a welcoming space.’ Lia Hills, author of The Desert Knows Her Name.

 

"Best verandah ever" Michelle McFarlane

 

2025 Residents;

Liberty Finn

Michael Ambriano

Lindon Lancaster

Annette Fuller

Susan Wirth