Ashton Court Mansion, a historic jewel in Bristol’s Arts Mansion programme, will kick off the New Year with an inspiring new event series curated by arts charity Artspace Lifespace and its artist-in-residence Dori Jo.
Launching on Wednesday 8 January 2025, the programme starts with “Hush City," a one-of-a-kind silent indoor gathering and artist residency retreat, designed to foster creativity and provide a restorative space for personal reflection.
The “Hush City” event invites participants aged 16+ to experience the tranquillity of intentional silence in a uniquely curated environment. Held in Ashton Court Mansion’s two-panelled lounges, the retreat runs from 8.30am to 9pm, offering an eclectic setup of cosy furniture, serene surroundings and a break from the distractions of the internet. Guests will engage in quiet, self-led activities with only two rules to follow:
- Observe 45-minute periods of silence, followed by 15-minute breaks with beats, drinks and welcoming new arrivals into the space.
- Keep all devices on airplane mode to maintain focus and presence.
Image: Dori Jo
“What do you do when you do you?” asks Dori Jo, the facilitator and visionary behind “Hush City.” A trained mime artist and Zen Buddhist practitioner, Dori Jo has developed this event to create alternative, non-verbal ways of socialising. Drawing on her global experience - from leading silent bike rides in Bristol to her time in a Japanese monastery - she believes silence can foster deeper connections and spark creativity.
“Silence doesn’t have to be awkward, it can be liberating,” Dori Jo says. “This space is for everyone who feels overwhelmed by the world’s noise or needs an opportunity to reset as the year begins.”
The January series also marks the launch of Artspace Lifespace’s artist residency programme. Designed to offer artists a chance to explore new ideas in a comfortable, low-pressure setting, the residency supports creativity for those who may not typically afford such opportunities.
The programme provides access to the mansion’s beautiful surroundings, comfortable facilities and peaceful atmosphere. In addition to being a hub for personal projects, the retreat encourages quiet collaboration and experimental thinking. Artists interested in future residencies at Ashton Court are encouraged to follow updates for upcoming dates later in the year.
“Our Residency Programme initiative reflects our commitment to making art accessible and inclusive,” said Jenna Graves from Artspace Lifespace, Venue Manager. “Our Residency Programme gives artists access to space to research and develop their ideas and projects. By donating profits from these events back into our community, Dori Jo is helping creative opportunities remain sustainable and open to everyone.”
Tickets for “Hush City” are limited and available online here: https://www.headfirstbristol.co.uk/whats-on/ashton-court/wed-8-jan-hush-city-what-do-you-do-when-you-do-you--119783#e119783. Entry is restricted to guests aged 16 and over.
For updates on the residency programme and upcoming retreats, visit www.artspacelifespace.co.uk.
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