Artists live, chat and create together in Salobrena’s relaxed new Sobremesa programme

Painters, writers, photographers, illustrators, musicians and dancers are sharing a house for a full week in Salobrena’s old town under a new initiative that puts everyday living at the heart of making art.

Magnolia Art House, based in the historic centre of the Costa Tropical town, has launched La Sobremesa (tabletop). Small groups of creators from Spain and abroad move into the same house, eat together, take walks and talk freely. No fixed schedules exist, and no finished piece has to be produced at the end. Organisers believe good ideas often arrive during ordinary moments rather than formal studio sessions.

Daily life becomes the workshop

Participants simply share the same space and daily rhythm. Conversations over meals or while strolling through the narrow streets can spark collaborations that might never happen in a traditional residency. Visual artists meet musicians, writers swap thoughts with dancers, and photographers exchange tips with illustrators. Magnolia Art House says these informal contacts often lead to future joint projects.

Interest has already proved strong. The first four weeks planned for this year are filled completely with artists from all over Spain and other countries. Because of that response, the organisers will keep La Sobremesa running as a regular art programme. Eight weeks of activity will now take place across the year, with new open calls for more creators to join.

Strengthening Salobrena’s creative reputation

Magnolia Art House already runs residencies, retreats and meetings linked to contemporary creation. La Sobremesa adds another layer by focusing on shared living as much as individual art work. The goal is to help position the Costa Tropical as a place where artists can connect as well as create.

This latest programme arrives in a town already known for welcoming public art. La Sobremesa keeps places open for new participants through the year, giving more artists the chance to experience creative life the Spanish way, slowly, together and around the table.

Magnolia Art House organises the event in various languages and should be contacted by those wishing to participate in the group.