There are four artist studios, that are separate from the main building. I had what I decided was the best one, as it was off by itself next to the chickens with a wall of windows for light and a great view.

Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains in Amherst, Virginia is the VCCA. I have had two residencies here in my (almost) home state. I remember so clearly the first time I went in 1995. My son was only 2 and I left him with his more than capable father in order to have a week of art-making at this gorgeous mountaintop retreat.