KASTEEL – WIJLRE

Kasteel Wijlre estate uniquely combines contemporary art and architecture with cultural heritage and nature. The expansive gardens and park surrounding the historic castle and Coach House are beautifully situated in the scenic South Limburg hills. The Hedge House, designed by architect Wiel Arets, embodies the estate’s focus on the exchange between art and nature; it is a spectacularly designed exhibition space that also houses a chicken coop and orchid nursery. Originally founded as a private initiative by art collectors Jo and Marlies Eyck, the estate became an independent public institution in 2015. Kasteel Wijlre estate presents a year-round programme of international exhibitions of contemporary art, public events, artist residencies, and educational activities at the intersection of art and nature. It is funded by the Mondriaan Foundation and the Province of Limburg.

Geographically, Kasteel Wijlre estate is located in the far southeast of the Netherlands. Wijlre, a village in the municipality of Gulpen-Wittem, is situated in a picturesque location amidst the hills of South Limburg, on the banks of the river Geul. The estate is located right in the green heart of the triangle formed by Maastricht, Heerlen, and Aachen. Its lush natural surroundings make for an environment that inspires its visitors (and artists alike) to enjoy a more contemplative, slowed-down experience of everyday life, through its subtle exchanges between art and nature.

Kasteel Wijlre estate’s programme of activities encompasses the production, presentation, and mediation of contemporary art through exhibitions, public and educational programmes, and artist residencies. Talent development is an important focus: alongside projects focusing on more established artists, Kasteel Wijlre estate’s mission is partly aimed at supporting and developing of emerging art practices. Following the nature of its transhistorical genius loci, the institution offers artists a literally natural context to conduct research in, artistically respond to, or develop connections in between art, nature, heritage, and architecture. Thematically, the relationship between humans and nature (or the more-than-human world) is emphatically addressed in Kasteel Wijlre estate’s programmes.

Kasteel Wijlre estate’s artist residency is located in the former Coach House. It consists of a comfortable apartment with all necessary facilities, and a small (20 sqm) workspace/studio. The residency period is 2 months, and comes with a residency stipend and production budget.

3.000€. Kasteel Wijlre provides accommodation that includes an apartment and workspace , as well as a stipend and production budget. Paid by the artist: insurance, travel expenses, food.