“My fellowship at LEIMAY came at a time in my creative life when I was feeling trapped by my past achievements and uncertain of my future. After many years facing outward into the world as artistic director of an opera company, of producing, performing, and directing large ensemble operas, and being responsible for many people’s well-being, I felt a strong call to turn inward and focus on myself as a performer and creator, to develop my solo voice. In this search, I have been encouraged and supported by Ximena, Shige, and the members of the LEIMAY community. Within the context and structure of the fellowship, the discipline of the artistic contract, and the regular studio hours, I claimed the time to explore and create in a way that was new for me.”
– Judith Barnes, Opera Singer, 2017-2018 Fellow