Studio Luce

Nestled within the lush garden walls of Villa Rosa and just steps from the beach, Studio Luce is so much more than a creative refuge in the heart of El Paredon. It’s a place for artists and writers to slow down, take a breath, and focus on their work with fresh eyes and open hearts. Here, the ocean hums in the background, time stretches, and something subtle begins to shift - Studio Luce is the kind of space where creative work doesn’t just get done - it expands.

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Founded by writer and community-builder Ben Crisp, visual artist Carlin Francis, and writer-academic Katie Gaddini, Studio Luce was born from a shared belief in art that’s grounded, generous, and in conversation with its surroundings. The residency welcomes writers, researchers, and artists from around the world, offering them not only space to create, but space to truly rest - something that's so often overlooked in a world that's hyper-focused on productivity, and yet so deeply necessary for artists, writers and creatives.

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Set against the backdrop of El Paredon’s black sand, salt air, and slow afternoons, Studio Luce's programs are designed to be as open as they are intentional. There’s no rigid schedule, just time - real time - to go inward, connect with others, and make something meaningful. Residents are encouraged to engage with the community in respectful ways, supporting a vision of tourism that’s thoughtful and reciprocal.

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Whether you’re finishing a manuscript, exploring a new direction, or simply in need of stillness, Studio Luce offers more than a retreat. It’s a gentle invitation back to yourself.

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Quick Info

• Artist residency & writing retreat in El Paredon

• Focused on creativity, rest & responsible tourism

• Hosted at Villa Rosa, next to Casa Zala and Mellow

• Created by Ben Crisp, Carlin Francis & Katie Gaddini

• Residencies offered at various times throughout the year (for more info check out www.studioluceguatemala.com)

• Instagram: @studioluce_guatemala