As part of an up-and-coming event series beginning in January, Ashton Court Mansion is hosting a quiet retreat in which participants aged 16+ can experience ‘the tranquillity of silence in a uniquely curated environment’.
Launching on Wednesday, January 8, the programme – which has been curated by arts charity Artspace Lifespace and its artist-in-residence Dori Jo – will be bringing a one-of-a-kind silent indoor gathering and artist residency retreat to the Estate, called ‘Hush City’. Described as being designed to ‘foster creativity and provide a restorative space for personal reflection’, Hush City will be held in Ashton Court Mansion’s two-panelled lounges and will run from 8.30am until 9pm.
Inside there will be an ‘eclectic’ set up of cosy furniture, ‘serene’ surroundings, and ‘a break from the distractions of the internet’. Guests will engage in quiet, self-led activities with two rules they must 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 aeroplane mode to maintain focus and presence.
Ticket prices range from £5 for up to two hours, £10 for up to five hours, and £16 for up to 12 hours. You can get yours here.
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.”