Sol y Luna

Through our Artist Immersion program – designed to connect artists, nature and community – we have welcomed a number of talented creatives to Sol y Luna. It is a unique chance for artists to absorb themselves in – and draw inspiration from – the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the area’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Buenos Aires based sculptor, visual and textile artist Jacinta Grondona works with abstract forms drawn from nature, so was an ideal candidate for the program. She recently joined us at Sol y Luna, enthusiastically throwing herself into life in the Sacred Valley, describing it at the end of her stay as ˝a paradise˝.

“When I arrived in the Sacred Valley, the first thing that struck me was the mountains. I arrived during the rainy season, so they were blanketed in what looked like green velvet.”

Jacinta’s work encompasses sculpture, textile screen printing and clothing design, often inspired by a sense of place and her surroundings. National Professor of Sculpture at the National University of the Arts of Buenos Aires (UNA), she has studied at a range of institutions from Boston to Buenos Aires, incorporating a host of media to produce a varied portfolio of work.

Arriving at Sol y Luna, finding herself surrounded by mountains, flowers, and hummingbirds, Jacinta explains that she ˝immediately felt my soul expand — it was a sacred place, a haven. As soon as I arrived, I said: this is where I want to stay˝.

Propelled straight into the indigenous community, Jacinta formed strong connections with all those she met and described feeling at one with Mother Earth.

Her varied itinerary included observing artisans practising ancient crafts such as weaving in much the same way as their ancestors have done for centuries, sampling produce whilst exploring local markets, exploring the dramatic scenery and Inca architecture and experiencing powerful, sacred ceremonies. Jacinta was mesmerized: ˝The explosion of colors, scents and flavors wove themselves into my soul”, she enthused.

Under the tutelage of a local artisan, Jacinta explored traditional sculpting techniques, drawing particular inspiration from the ancient Inca architecture and the spiritual heritage of the Sacred Valley.

˝A deep immersion in a living culture shook me and sparked new ideas˝ she noted, describing how inspiring this region is to so many who visit.

Jacinta has donated an artwork inspired by her experience to support fundraising efforts for the Sol y Luna Foundation, an organization set up in 1998 by Sol y Luna’s French owner Petit Miribel which provides invaluable love, care and education to children born into extreme poverty. The foundation consists of the Sol y Luna School, Paqari for special needs support, the Sol y Luna Home, and the Roots & Wings programme for further education.

During her stay, Jacinta stayed in one of our secluded, luxurious local stone casitas situated within stunning mature gardens, tasted top quality menus created by our skilled chefs and had access to the restorative and revitalizing Yacu Wasi spa.

Participating in the Artist Immersion program at Sol y Luna has had a profound and life-changing effect on Jacinta.

“The experience at Sol y Luna” she explained following her trip “awakened something new in me – it planted a seed of inspiration. I’m not sure yet what it will grow into, but I nurture it with care, drawn back by the uniqueness of the place and the kindness of its people.”