There’s creativity that thrives in places with wide-open spaces. Locations that open you up for reflection, where inspiration just flows freely. That’s why we launched our Artist in Residence program—a unique opportunity to welcome artists to Vista Verde Ranch for a season, inviting them to create art. Our very first resident artist, Georgiana “Georgi” Stern, arrived early this summer. Through numerous performances and casual jam sessions, Georgi has made a lasting impression—not just with her talent, but with her warmth and personality. We recently sat down with her to reflect on her time at the Ranch and hear what the experience has meant to her. Here’s what she had to say.
VVR: You’ve spent most of your life performing on stage. What drew you to the Artist in Residence program at Vista Verde?
Georgiana: I’ve always thrived in front of an audience—whether it was the high school play or a national TV performance. But I was curious what might happen creatively if I took time away from the stage and the pressure and just gave myself space. This program felt like a once-in-a-lifetime invitation to explore that.
VVR: And what did you find when you got here?
Georgiana: Silence. [laughs] A lot of it. At first, it was intimidating. I have lived in the city my entire life and have never experienced so much open space, peace, and solitude. I’ve never had to practice being alone before. But the quiet has become a teacher in its own way. I’m learning that creativity doesn’t always look like a spotlight—it can be soft, slow, and internal.
VVR: How has your music evolved during your time at The Ranch?
Georgiana: I have been asked to play music that I have not played before. Singing old country western tunes has been a really fun challenge. It has asked my own songwriting methods questions about authenticity and storytelling. I realized I have been writing in a formula for a long time. I was asking myself what is the most catchy instead of what feels the most honest to me and my story. I think this new breaking free of my creative patterns has pushed my lyricism forward.
VVR: Any surprises along the way?
Georgiana: I am amazed by the deep connections I’ve already made. I have a strong personality, and I have met so many people that I just adore. My coworkers are lovely and have supported me intensely. Every time I play, they are there to cheer me on, which is a huge confidence booster. The Ranch has also given me opportunities to collaborate with other more established artists like Van Andrew, which is just incredible.
VVR: What does “practice” mean to you now?
Georgiana: Practice is such an interesting concept for musicians. It is our lifeblood when we are in school and working in large ensembles. I was expected to practice 4 hours a day outside of rehearsals. You often hear “practice makes perfect,” but I use the mantra “practice makes permanent.” If you practice something wrong, you’re going to play it wrong. Practice isn’t just music. I have to practice patience, empathy, compassion, and knowing when to keep my mouth shut [laughing]. I have come to realize that my daily practices are also making permanent, not perfect. I am practicing introspection and giving grace to others (and myself) even when it’s difficult. Practice isn’t just sitting with my guitar or at the piano or doing vocal exercises. Practice is learning and growing as a human being. I don’t want to ever stop doing that.
VVR: Any advice for the next Artist in Residence?
Georgi: Use some of your creative time to relax. Leave the hustle and bustle behind. It takes a minute to adjust here, whether it’s the altitude or the lifestyle. One big issue that every musician I have ever met runs into is feeling like they are not working hard enough. Use your time here to reset. Also, give everything you do a really good try, and give yourself some grace when it isn’t perfect. It will never be perfect, and that is okay. Create with reckless abandon. Know that your time at the Ranch is sacred, so take full advantage of the opportunity. You’ve stumbled upon something really special.
As Georgi wraps up her season with us, it’s clear that the Artist in Residence program is about more than just creating art—it’s about community, personal growth, and the beauty of slowing down. She reminds us that creativity doesn’t just come from constant output, but from stillness, connection, and grace. We’re grateful for the contribution that Georgi has brought—her music and her heart. We can’t wait to see how her story continues to unfold beyond her time at the Ranch.