The residency has been running every June for 15 years with a focus on artists based in the Balkans. Efimija Ugrinovska, a lover and sponsor of art, worked with her father to open up their restaurant pergola and garden to artists each summer so the artists can enjoy the peaceful surroundings in the mountains and be inspired by the local springs.

While there is a focus on Balkan artists, painters from around the world have been part of Vevcani gatherings, from Mexico to Egypt.

Vevcani is a special town, just north of Lake Ohrid. It boasts freshwater springs that are diverted into little streams around each street, making it like a little Venice in the mountains. One of the residency founders was the former mayor of the town. While here, artists will feel as if they’re truly part of the community.