Located in the exceptional heritage and unspoilt setting of the Montperrin Psychiatric Hospital dating back to the 19th century, 3 bis f is a place for multidisciplinary contemporary creation which is led by two artistic directors, one for visual arts and the other for performing arts.

Approximately 20 French and international artists are invited to participate in residency programmes run by 3 bis f each season for varying periods of time, from a few weeks for live performance to several months for visual arts. Artists have been using 3 bis f as a workspace since its creation in 1983, reflecting the unusual identity of the centre which situates their practices in a different context. This environment is conducive to experimentation and the mixing of artistic disciplines and practices. Residents pursue their creative work with an openness to fellow artists, our team, as well as members of the public who may or may not be patients of the hospital.

During their residency, artists benefit from the support of the 3 bis f team which is present on site. The residency programme and exhibition constitute the production of new works, as well as a milestone in the artist’s career. The creative project carried out by the artist marks a turning point or a period during which risks are taken in his or her practice. Moreover, the residency period is an opportunity for artists to meet and interact with those around them. Keen that the duration of the programme correspond as much as possible to the act of creation, the centre identifies (imagines), together with the artist, a fertile ground for sharing, encounters, exchanges and practices that are capable of nurturing the artist’s approach.