​​The Shillim Retreat and Institute, nestled in the Pawana Lake region, roughly 2.5 hours east Mumbai, is a 3,000 acre conservation initiative. This biodiverse area faces intense development pressure. The Shillim Collective convenes international workshops and residencies, hosted by the Shillim Institute, bringing together artists, architects, designers, scholars, scientists, and policy makers to address systemic issues of conservation, ecology, and culture. This project is a pilot effort intended to act as a catalyst for a cohesive conservation initiative for the Western Ghats.

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The Collective investigates ecological and cultural challenges in the region, understanding our regional work as part of a network of international collaborations with a global reach. Participating Indian partner organizations include OIKOS Ecological Services, The Wildlife Conservation Trust and Waatavaran, an environmental organization focused on climate change.

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Shillim Artists’ Residencies provide an inspiring setting for artists, architects, scholars and ecologically minded practitioners to work, individually or collaboratively, for up to three weeks at the Shillim Retreat and Institute. Residents have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this diverse landscape, as well as connect with local artists and craft communities, and the staff and community of the Shillim Institute.