Get creative on your gap year
What ignites your creativity? What moves you to see the world in new ways? In Normandy’s breathtaking landscapes, where light and beauty have inspired generations of artists, you’ll explore a range of creative practices including Film, Acting, Ceramics, Painting, Drawing, Photography and Writing.
Find connection through creativity
Creative Semester is a multidisciplinary program that helps you think and see like an artist, connect deeply with your peers, and grow your creativity in the broadest sense. Through shared projects, lively discussions about art and artists we love, and moments of quiet reflection, you’ll discover the joy of living and creating in community.
At the heart of the program is collaborative making across disciplines including film, photography, writing, painting, drawing, ceramics, and craft. You’ll build skills through hands-on workshops and work together on projects that blend ideas and mediums. You might paint a mural, create a zine, shoot a short documentary, or build and fly kites on the beach — the possibilities are as open as your imagination.
Guided by resident mentors, each day invites experimentation, connection, and reflection, drawing inspiration from the landscapes, culture, and creative spirit of Normandy.
DAILY SCHEDULE
9:30: Group meet up
10:00: Collaborative Projects
12:30: Lunch
1:30: Cultural and Creative Explorations
4:00: Community Hour
6:00: Dinner
8:00: Evening Activity (Optional)
Wednesday and Saturday: Full-day excursions
Make art make meaning
This journey is about discovering how creativity can shape your perspective and deepen your understanding of the world and of yourself. By the end, you’ll leave with a renewed sense of purpose, more creative confidence and a profound connection to the art, culture and people of Normandy.
Dates and Details
Program Dates
Sept 20th - Nov 20th, 2026
Cohort Size
Max 22 students.
Cost
$17,800 USD
What is included: accommodation, excursions, workshops, activities, tours, instruction, basic food stocks in your house for breakfast and lunch, dinner 5 nights per week cooked by our in-house chef. Equipment and supplies for creative projects.
Not included: Airfare to Paris, France and train to our location in Cherbourg. Meals out twice per week and on trips. Personal art kit (list will be supplied)
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Eligibility
Ages 17-22 of all levels of experience
Language Requirements
None. All our instruction is in English.
College Credit and Scholarship
College credit is available for this program. Scholarships are available for this program.
Program Highlights
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Make Art in Nature: Take your sketchbook on excursions through Normandy’s natural beauty, capturing the essence of the changing landscapes, from rolling hills to dramatic cliffs.
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Hike Coastal Wonders: Trek the stunning Nez du Jobourg, one of Europe’s best coastal hiking spots, taking in panoramic views of cliffs and the sea.
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Explore Historic Mont Saint-Michel: Visit the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site and dive into the rich history of this architectural marvel, perched dramatically on a rocky island.
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Discover Tatihou Island: Escape to this serene bird sanctuary, where lush gardens and calming sea views offer the perfect retreat for creativity and contemplation.
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Traditional Breadmaking at a 16th-Century Windmill: Learn the ancient craft of breadmaking at a historic windmill, baking your own bread in a traditional wood-fired oven.
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Visit the Bayeux Tapestry: Explore the famous Bayeux Tapestry, a masterpiece of medieval art, and uncover the stories of Normandy’s past.
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D-Day Landing Beaches: Reflect on the courage and resilience of those who shaped history during a visit to the historic D-Day beaches.
Rouen Trip
Creative Semester includes a 7-day trip to Rouen, the arts and culture capital of Normandy and candidate for European City of the Year. Explore its Gothic architecture, vibrant art scene, bustling markets, and world-class cuisine in a city rich with history and creative energy.
Rouen Itinerary Highlights:
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Visit the awe-inspiring Rouen Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that inspired Monet’s iconic series of paintings
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Explore the hauntingly beautiful Aître Saint-Maclou, a medieval ossuary turned cultural hub
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Enjoy panoramic views of Rouen’s historic skyline from Saint Catherine's Hill
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Walk in the footsteps of history at the Joan of Arc and uncover the story of her remarkable life and legacy
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Wander the serene ruins of Jumièges Abbey, one of Normandy’s most significant medieval sites
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Stroll through the picturesque harbor town of Honfleur, known for its colorful facades and artistic heritage
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Take in the natural wonder of Étretat’s breathtaking chalk cliffs and arches, celebrated by countless artists
Program Pillars
Creativity
Creativity is essential to a fulfilling life, not just in art but as a way of thinking and self-expression. We value creativity in all forms—journaling, cooking, painting, and craft—and draw inspiration from artists and thinkers to inspire personal discovery.
Community
We value community for its role in personal growth and collective well-being, fostering meaningful connections through shared experiences. By caring for ourselves, each other, and the environment, we create a supportive space for learning and growth.
Contemplation
We encourage quiet reflection through time in nature, poetry, and contemplative practices like yoga and meditation. These practices nurture presence, self-awareness, and inner peace, helping us connect more deeply with ourselves and the world around us.
Culture
We believe culture enriches our lives and shapes our understanding. In Normandy, we explore how food, art, and conversation create joy and connection, drawing inspiration from poets, artists, and thinkers to live with passion and purpose.
Who is this program for?
This program is for any gap year student interested in expanding their creativity, exploring French culture, and living in community with a cohort of like-minded peers. We welcome all students — no prior experience in the arts or French language is required.
Consider Creative Semester if you would like to:
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Think like an artist and understand the value of creativity and its broader applications to living a more intentional, inspired life.
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Build on your creative skills and take them to new places learning to push past what’s comfortable into what’s possible.
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Collaborate and generate ideas together, learning through shared experimentation and discovery.
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Build meaningful things with others collaborative projects, stories, and experiences that reflect connection and purpose.
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Ask big questions and explore how art and creativity can illuminate fresh perspectives and build meaningful connections.
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Practice creative living in community, embracing collaboration, shared meals, and collective reflection as part of the artistic process and personal growth.
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Discover your values and sense of purpose, using creativity as a pathway to self-understanding, mindfulness, and meaningful connection with others.
What our students say
