Experience the Eco-Retreat : Advance Our Mission

We have flexible spaces to host classes, workshops, lectures, and trainings. Our grant programs are designed to encourage new
engagement with the living arts and to discover new approaches to using our renewable resources to create the things we need for a life affirming civil society.

We have designed the Artvark Center at Very Dear to perform multiple functions. One of those functions is to produce income for the advancement of our mission. To that end the Center may be rented for private functions whenever it is not in use for Foundation business. Inquiries may be made here.

 

 

jamaican view

Life:Art

The Artvark Foundation exists to encourage and promote the continued evolution of the living arts and the art of living together. Our cultural center in the hills of St Ann Parish is designed to host workshops and conferences which promote and explore the living arts.

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Jamaica: Community

We hope to be a catalyst for all Jamaicans who recognize the need to move into the future together and to address the problems of the past without eliminating the cultural fabric that makes a group of people into a community.

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Efficiency:Abundance

The grounds are designed as an agricultural demonstration site incorporating the best wisdom of the past with the best practices of the present. The focus is on the efficient use of all natural resources to promote health and abundance.

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Reviews

  •   Artvark is a unique property in that it is a return to a Jamaica that values quiet, courtesy and cheerful attitude. Everyone who works there works to ensure your time is spent in relaxation... read more

    thumb Margaret
    1/06/2020
  •   Artvark is absolutely lovely. The staff is so helpful and hospitable and Stone is an AMAZING chef. The vistas were absolutely incredible and it was the perfect place to unplug to have a great... read more

    thumb Melissa
    1/20/2020
  •   We loved our stay. The staff is warm, welcoming and very willing to help with directions and local food choices and customs. The rooms are clean, the bed comfortable and the views are... read more

    thumb Margaret
    2/24/2019
  •   The view of the Caribbean is fabulous, and the facilities are new and modern, but the staff is what makes Artwork eco retreat at Very Dear truly exceptional.
    Stone cooked delicious meals with a Jamaican... read more

    thumb Bill
    1/29/2019
  •   AAHHMAZING! 20 ladies spent the weekend at Artvark and 20 ladies are in love! This place is nothing short of exceptional in every way. The staff catered to us with so much LOVE! the atmosphere... read more

    thumb Des
    4/28/2019
  •   Photos don’t do this place justice. We had an absolutely lovely time here. The staff were communicative and friendly. Breakfast/meals were fresh and delicious. A great location for a larger group - we’d love... read more

    thumb Maureen
    11/15/2021
  •   Kevin’s place was amazing just a bit hard to find because it’s up the hill, in all it was an amazing view the staff was amazing Chef Stone and Ms terry was so welcoming and... read more

    thumb Kimberley
    7/31/2023
  •   This is the perfect place for a small retreat.

    thumb Lynn
    12/22/2023

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