Jim McCauley, our Founder and Board Chairman, is an out-of-the-ordinary traveler and a seeker of creativity and beauty in the art world. Armed with a sketchpad and boundless curiosity, he has explored the diverse expressions of art across Istanbul, Berlin, Kyoto, and beyond.
On Jim’s journey, he noticed a striking contrast: the thriving international art scenes against the dwindling state of art in the United States. The consequence of decades-long defunding has left a void in schools and communities and created a real lack of support for artists. In a moment of reflection with Shawn Chavez, they realized they could no longer be passive observers. The stark disparity in support for artists, especially those marginalized and disadvantaged, fueled a newfound purpose within him.
With a partner and a vision, Jim and Shawn gathered a community of like-minded individuals—artists, philanthropists, and community leaders. Together, they embarked on a mission to fill the void left by neglect, creating Art House San Clemente—a sanctuary of creativity and support for artists left behind.
The Art House isn’t just a residency; it has become a thriving community offering resources, mentorship, and a platform for marginalized artists to showcase their talents. Within its walls, stories of resilience and triumph resonate as artists from diverse backgrounds come together to shape a new narrative for themselves and their communities. The art produced speaks of shared human experiences, transcending boundaries, and forging connections.
Jim and Shawn’s vision has started a transformative movement. The Art House San Clemente inspires a new era of appreciation and support for the arts in the United States, far beyond its physical confines.
On Jim’s journey, he noticed a striking contrast: the thriving international art scenes against the dwindling state of art in the United States. The consequence of decades-long defunding has left a void in schools and communities and created a real lack of support for artists. In a moment of reflection with Shawn Chavez, they realized they could no longer be passive observers. The stark disparity in support for artists, especially those marginalized and disadvantaged, fueled a newfound purpose within him.
With a partner and a vision, Jim and Shawn gathered a community of like-minded individuals—artists, philanthropists, and community leaders. Together, they embarked on a mission to fill the void left by neglect, creating Art House San Clemente—a sanctuary of creativity and support for artists left behind.
The Art House isn’t just a residency; it has become a thriving community offering resources, mentorship, and a platform for marginalized artists to showcase their talents. Within its walls, stories of resilience and triumph resonate as artists from diverse backgrounds come together to shape a new narrative for themselves and their communities. The art produced speaks of shared human experiences, transcending boundaries, and forging connections.
Jim and Shawn’s vision has started a transformative movement. The Art House San Clemente inspires a new era of appreciation and support for the arts in the United States, far beyond its physical confines.
WHO WE ARE
The Art House is a physical sanctuary and symbol of creative possibility. Each year 13 artists from all corners of the globe come together to go through a transformative experience and bring with them a kaleidoscope of perspectives, cultures, and artistic styles.
From the moment the artists set foot on the grounds, they are enveloped in an atmosphere that nurtures creativity and collaboration. The beauty of the surroundings serve as both muse and backdrop, with the rhythmic waves below and the ever-changing skies above providing a natural canvas for inspiration. For artists to thrive and be free to push boundaries, they need to be supported as a whole person, not just an artist. The Art House provides all accommodation, food and a stipend that covers all their material costs.
During their six to eight-week residency, artists are engaged in both solitary creation and are welcomed into a tight-knit community of creators. The house buzzes with the exchange of ideas, collaborative projects, and the forging of connections that transcend geographical and cultural distances. The residency aims to support the artists individually and also to cultivate a global network of creatives who can continue to inspire and elevate each other long after their time at the residency.
The culmination of this artistic journey is a gallery show that celebrates the diversity of voices, mediums, and stories that had been incubated within the walls of the Art House. The showcase is a testament to the power of art to bridge gaps, challenge norms, and create connections that span continents.
The impact of the Art House extended far beyond its picturesque location. Artists who had once graced its residency program went on to achieve remarkable success. Regular shows became the norm for many, and some found themselves presenting their work at prestigious events like Art Basel. The international acclaim that followed was not just a reflection of individual talent but a recognition of the transformative power of the Art House experience.
The success stories of these artists became a beacon, drawing attention to the importance of supporting creativity and diversity in the arts. The Art House, once a response to a gap in artistic infrastructure, had become a driving force in reshaping the narrative around marginalized artists, proving that with the right support, they could not only thrive but also redefine the global artistic landscape.
From the moment the artists set foot on the grounds, they are enveloped in an atmosphere that nurtures creativity and collaboration. The beauty of the surroundings serve as both muse and backdrop, with the rhythmic waves below and the ever-changing skies above providing a natural canvas for inspiration. For artists to thrive and be free to push boundaries, they need to be supported as a whole person, not just an artist. The Art House provides all accommodation, food and a stipend that covers all their material costs.
During their six to eight-week residency, artists are engaged in both solitary creation and are welcomed into a tight-knit community of creators. The house buzzes with the exchange of ideas, collaborative projects, and the forging of connections that transcend geographical and cultural distances. The residency aims to support the artists individually and also to cultivate a global network of creatives who can continue to inspire and elevate each other long after their time at the residency.
The culmination of this artistic journey is a gallery show that celebrates the diversity of voices, mediums, and stories that had been incubated within the walls of the Art House. The showcase is a testament to the power of art to bridge gaps, challenge norms, and create connections that span continents.
The impact of the Art House extended far beyond its picturesque location. Artists who had once graced its residency program went on to achieve remarkable success. Regular shows became the norm for many, and some found themselves presenting their work at prestigious events like Art Basel. The international acclaim that followed was not just a reflection of individual talent but a recognition of the transformative power of the Art House experience.
The success stories of these artists became a beacon, drawing attention to the importance of supporting creativity and diversity in the arts. The Art House, once a response to a gap in artistic infrastructure, had become a driving force in reshaping the narrative around marginalized artists, proving that with the right support, they could not only thrive but also redefine the global artistic landscape.
What We'd Like To DoThe primary goal of the Art House is to continue providing transformative opportunities for artists from diverse backgrounds by offering residency programs that foster creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.
Looking ahead we aspire to expand the reach of our mission by establishing similar Art Houses in other cities across the United States. By creating a network of these artistic havens, we seek to weave a tapestry of interconnected communities, empowering artists and catalyzing change within the broader art landscape. Through these additional Art Houses, we aim to multiply the impact, providing even more artists with the resources and support needed to thrive. This network will serve as a catalyst for a collaborative movement that transcends geographic boundaries, allowing artists to share experiences, ideas, and opportunities. We envision a future where this interconnected network becomes a driving force, not only in supporting individual artists but in reshaping and diversifying the face of the art community in the United States. We aim to contribute to a paradigm shift where artists from all walks of life have equal access to opportunities, resources, and recognition. By fostering a supportive ecosystem that extends beyond individual residences, we aim to catalyze positive change within the larger artistic community, breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive and dynamic landscape for all. Through this vision, the Art House aims to be a cornerstone in transforming the American art scene, nurturing a culture of collaboration, diversity, and mutual support among artists across the nation. |
How You Can HelpTo sustain and expand this initiative, we are reaching out to donors who share our passion for fostering artistic talent and promoting positive change in the art community. Your support will play a crucial role in ensuring the financial viability of the Art House and its mission to empower artists.
Here’s how your contribution can make a difference: Residency Program Support: Your donation will directly contribute to providing stipends for materials, covering travel and living expenses, and maintaining the surroundings that inspire creativity during the residency. Expansion and Networking: With your support, we aspire to establish additional Art Houses in cities across the United States. This expansion will create a network of interconnected communities, amplifying the impact of our mission and empowering even more artists. Changing the Face of the Art Community: Your generosity will contribute to a larger vision of transforming the American art scene. By breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity, we aim to create a dynamic and diverse artistic landscape that benefits artists from all walks of life. Your commitment to the arts can help shape a future where creativity knows no bounds and where artists receive the support they need to thrive. We invite you to be a crucial part of this journey by making a meaningful donation to the Art House San Clemente. |