Saranda Art Residency
Get on the Waitlist
for when applications open in 2026
Maybe you've been craving a slower pace for a while now.
A place where you can wake up without an agenda, sip your coffee while overlooking the Ionian Sea, spend hours creating simply because you want to, and end the day feeling peaceful instead of exhausted.
That's exactly why I created this solo artist residency on the beautiful Albanian Riviera.
This isn't about hustling, networking, or trying to make your next big breakthrough. It's about giving yourself permission to slow down, breathe deeply, and create without pressure.
This is a self-guided experience, with daily prompts waiting for you in a beautiful printed welcome package you'll find in your space when you arrive. Whether you spend the afternoon painting, writing, photographing, reading, or simply sitting by the sea, this is your time.
Because I want to keep each residency intimate, applications will only open during select times of the year, and spaces will be limited. If this sounds like the season you've been longing for, I'd love for you to join the waitlist.
You'll be the first to know when applications open, receive updates as the residency comes to life, and have plenty of time to decide whether this experience is the right fit for you.
If you've been dreaming of a slower season on the Albanian Riviera—where the days are unhurried, the views inspire you, and creativity has room to breathe—I hope you'll join us.
I'd love to welcome you when the time is right.
Get on the waitlist for when applications open up in 2026
Saranda Art Residency
A self-guided solo artist residency on the Albanian Riviera for women who are craving a slower pace, old-world European charm, and the space to create without pressure
FOLLOW ALONG
Sending you a sea salt whisper from the Ionian Sea
Warmly, Kara
During your solo artist residency, you’ll have a private apartment and a serene creative studio space—your sanctuary on the Albanian Riviera.
Each solo artist residency is a minimum of two weeks and can extend up to four weeks, giving you the time to rejuvenate, reflect, and unfold your artistry at your own pace. This is a fully self-directed experience—no rigid itineraries, no expectations, just the freedom to explore your creativity and reset in a beautiful coastal setting.
Just a short walk from your home, you'll find a quiet, natural beach—untouched and raw, where you can dip your toes in the sea or swim each day, weather permitting. It’s a peaceful escape with a café for a slow coffee and clean facilities, so you’ll feel safe and cared for as you move between your studio and the sea.
Step onto your balcony each morning, gaze at the Ionian Sea, and let the charm of the Albanian Riviera guide you. This is your time—a chance to rediscover your creative flow, fully immersed in the beauty and stillness of this hidden corner of Europe.
General Information:
About
This residency is a peaceful, self-directed creative pause on the Albanian Riviera. It’s designed for women artists who want space to reset, rejuvenate, and explore their creativity in a slow, intentional way—no pressure, just time.
Housing/Studio Details
Your home is a private apartment, featuring a full kitchen, a cozy bedroom, a bathroom, and a balcony overlooking the Ionian Sea. The living room is transformed into a creative studio, equipped with a table, natural light, and Wi-Fi—perfect for your daily practice. Plus, a hidden beach is just a walk away, where you can swim and relax.
Pricing
Residency fees include your apartment stay and studio access and vary depending on the season. The minimum two-week stay is $1000, and up to four weeks is $2000. A deposit secures your booking, and the remaining balance is due before you arrive. Details on payment and what’s included will be provided once you apply.
Please join the waitlist to receive 2026 pricing when it is released later in 2026.
We accept independent guests for a minimum of two weeks at a time.
Please note: You will need to bring all of your own art supplies with you. There is one art studio with supplies in Saranda and other small stores with art supplies. Please plan and pack accordingly. Being by the sea you will find bits of nature or junk to use in your art but there are no supplies in the studio.
What is Included: Your stay includes exclusive use of the residential apartment, utilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, and full access to the creative Studio workspace.
Cancellation Policy: This is non-refundable.
Traveler’s Insurance: Guests staying at the property are strongly encouraged to purchase comprehensive traveler’s insurance.
The seasons in Saranda unfold like a gentle creative rhythm.
Fall: Our inaugural season runs in September, October, and November. This is a serene time—temperatures are mild, crowds are smaller, and the Ionian Sea still whispers warmth.
Winter: We take a pause in December and January, allowing ourselves winter to rest.
Spring: We reopen in February, March, and April, as the first blossoms appear. The air is fresh, and creative energy stirs again.
Late Spring to Early Summer: In May and June, the days are longer, and the sea invites you daily. This is a perfect time to revisit, reflect, and dream anew.
Each season is a chance to pause, create, and connect to the timeless beauty of Saranda.
Testimonials
What others have said about working with and creating with Kara
"Working with Kara has been an absolute pleasure. Kara goes above and beyond to ensure that our needs are met and that we receive the support we need. I highly recommend Kara, she is someone that genuinely cares about their clients' success and creativity".
Yvonna Kopacz’s-Wright
Goddess Wisdom Council
"Kara has been such an enthusiastic and knowledgeable help to our work. She brings warmth and positivity to everything she does. Her heart is in her work deeply and we can feel it. Kara is an excellent communicator and an asset to any business or creative endeavor".
Cora Poage
Goddess Wisdom Council
"Working with Kara has been a complete game-changer for my business and my life! What truly sets Kara apart is her ability to take any idea I have—no matter how big or small—and bring it to life flawlessly. It’s not just that she handles the execution; she turns every idea into something successful. Her expertise is unmatched. She’s not just someone I work with—she’s a strategist, a problem-solver, and truly a rock star".
Allie Christine
Make Kids Healthy Again
"From our very first call, I felt an immediate sense of comfort and connection with Kara. She gently and patiently walked me through each step, encouraging me along the way—especially during those moments when I felt overwhelmed or unsure where to begin. I truly couldn’t have done this without Kara’s expertise, encouragement, and steady support every step of the way".
Andrea Lein
Andrea Lein Therapist
FAQs
Can I bring a spouse/child/pet
Based on the creative container- this is intended for only her- 1 solo artist at a time.
Will I need travelers insurance
Yes, please get full coverage for your entire stay in Albania
Will I need a car
A private taxi will pick you up from Tirana airport and also take you back to Tirana for your flight home/ or to another destination. You will not need to take the regular bus to and from the airport. The driver and taxi are included in your stay both ways arrival pick up and then for your departure flight. This is not an additional fee but do plan on the drive time which can take from 4.5 hours to 6 hours depending on time of day and traffic.
The taxi ride is comfortable, you will be able to make any stops needed for toilet, stretch, to buy water or food. Just let our vetted driver know what you need. The driver will also speak English fluently and will make sure you are settled once you arrive in Saranda.
Saranda is walkable everywhere so you won't need a car, but you can rent a car if you want to.
Will you have supplies for me to use
The studio and home will not have any supplies and you will be responsible to bring anything you need. There is a local art supply store in Saranda and also small shops that have art & crafts supplies. Please bring anything you need before if there are specific things you want for your residency.
