As builders, we know that a warm and inviting space can change the way we feel. To design such a space, many people must come together and contribute their skills, vision, and creativity. With everyone working together, an ordinary room can be turned into an extraordinary one. These spaces don’t just come together by chance, but are masterfully created by a community of builders.

The Creative Process in Intricately Designed

An artist’s creative process is similarly delicate. Though they may be born with great talent, to produce a masterpiece they require a space free of distractions, where they feel supported and safe. This environment of stillness and purity of intention allows the artist to truly come alive and create.

Connecting Alberta Musicians and Producers in Central Alberta

Independent artists and creatives need opportunities to connect with producers in-person. They need space and time where they can be creative without worrying about time or following a template. A place where they can let their inspiration and energy flow freely. A place where they can find the flow and all becomes one as moments meet moments and magic unfolds.

A Space to Create: International Artist Habitat

The International Artist Habitat is an organization dedicated to helping artists and producers around the world collaborate within affordable and environmentally sustainable recording studios, living quarters, and live music showcases. The organization provides opportunities for independent artists and creatives to connect with each other and with producers in-person, advocate for small businesses and developing artists, and create a global community of creatives. This community is paving the way to create sustainable and affordable opportunities for artists to get their art out into the world, turning dreams into reality. 

In Fall 2022, Alair™ Red Deer sponsored an artist from Alberta to spend a week at Benalto Sounds studio as part of the IAH community sub sector Alberta Artist Habitat (AAH). Alair is committed to supporting community growth, and partnering with AAH is a great way to help local artists expand and grow their careers. 

Benalto Sound is a recording studio with living quarters for residents, who can be inspired by nature, pure aspirations, community, and stillness. During the residency, there are lock-out days for recording, a showcase event at Snake Lake Brewing in Sylvan Lake, opportunities for day trips to the Rocky Mountains, as well as family meals to connect with other people in the music community.

Chic Chameleon: Alberta Artist Habitat 2022

In September 2022, Alair sponsored Alberta-based artist Chic Chameleon for a week-long residency at Benalto Sounds studio. The artist was paired up with a producer, featured in a showcase at Snake Lake Brewing Co, and given the time to work on his debut album.

We caught up with Patrick Froese, Chic Chameleon’s founder, to ask him about his time at Benalto Sound and the residency.

Q: Tell us about your time at Benalto Sound, and the projects you worked on in that time? 

A: Recording at Benalto Sound was very productive during my residency. I was able to record all of the bedtracks and overdubs on the first single for my debut album under my project Chic Chameleon, entitled “Come On Home.” The plan is to release this track in early 2023.

Q: How does partnering with AAH help support artists and their careers? 

A: AAH is an incredible opportunity for emerging artists. With sponsorships from Alair Homes and Snake Lake Brewing, the cost of studio time was cut dramatically. This helped the studio become a very sustainable option for me and I was very thrilled and thankful for the financial assistance. As an emerging artist, opportunities like this don’t come every day and I’m very thankful to Nich, Peter, Alair Homes, and Snake Lake Brewing for helping me out and getting the ball rolling for the creation of my new album. I would definitely encourage other artists to apply.

Q: What was the highlight of working with AAH?

A: ​​ ​​The best part for me was the tranquil environment at Benalto Sound Studios. It’s a great studio in a peaceful and remote town, which is perfect for writing and recording. Peter made my stay enjoyable with good food and drinks from Snake Lake Brewing. An added bonus was when Peter’s friend Liam came to cook an incredible meal for us. It was a delicious chicken, berry, and rice dish called Maqluba that I’ll never forget.

To learn more visit: https://internationalartisthabitat.com/