From Lauren Anders

30th June - 9th July

I had the opportunity to visit the Trélex Residency for a long week in July. This marked my first time truly traveling alone, my first time in Switzerland, and my first time dedicating time solely toward writing.

I live and work in New York City, and so naturally, I’ve learned to multitask. I write on the train, at work between emails, and when I should be sleeping. I write in the nooks and crannies of my life here. Which, to be honest with you, has its perks. I enjoy the urgency of writing in that way; it leaves little room for overthought. But, at the same time, there is nothing more meaningful to me right now, for my work, than being afforded the time and space to do something I care about in such a concentrated way. I’m working on my first book, as I’ve said for a few years now, and unfortunately, the nooks and crannies won’t cut it. 

Nina welcomed me in with an openness to go about my days as I saw fit and was there to lend a hand and answer questions when I had them. The spaces that were open to me to use and occupy were more than gracious. I spent most mornings drinking coffee, looking out at the Jura mountains, reading, writing, and editing more than I probably have in the last year, and overall, just taking my time. In the evening, I’d swim, or ride one of the bikes around town, criss-crossing through vineyards and sunflower fields. I realize it sounds like I’m overromanticizing this, but that truly is exactly how my days passed. I got to spend part of my time in Trelex with another artist, Sallie, who was kind enough to share stories with me about her life and work.

This residency is unique in that it can be whatever you need it to be, and for me, it was more than what I'd hoped for. Thanks again to Nina (and her family) for having me, and I hope to visit again in the future!