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 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
  •   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
  •   This place is a gem. I've traveled a lot and it's really special. I look for private, remote natural settings that are accessible to nearby destinations. You have to know that the setting and amenities... read more

    thumb Atieno
    3/25/2018
  •   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
  •   Artvark Retreat was truly a great find. It's a very large place with plenty of space and has excellent staff and host. The ethical credentials of this place are fantastic.i thoroughly recommend this place

    thumb Kaleem
    11/03/2019
  •   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
  •   This is the perfect place for a small retreat.

    thumb Lynn
    12/22/2023
  •   This place is amazing. The view is fantastic. Its super clean and everyone is very helpfull.
    Kevin is super helpfull and made sure that everything was under control.
    I will comeback soon.

    thumb Filipa
    8/06/2018

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