Description
Dates
Application Deadline: March 5, 2025
Program Dates: August 18 - August 29, 2025
Overview
Summer Writers is a self-directed residency that provides writers with the time and space to focus on their work away from the constraints of everyday life. During the residency, writers can take advantage of one-on-one mentorship opportunities with faculty as well as a community of artistic peers.
Faculty include Dr. Douglas Kearney, Dr. Holly Melgard, Dr. Eric Sneathen and professional guest Hazel Millar (Book*hug Press).
Description
This two-week self-directed residency offers time and space for writers to focus, reconnect, and re-energize their writing practice. In addition to a single room and a small private studio, writers will be able to engage with other writers on the program.
As a flexible self-guided program with optional elements, the Summer Writers residency allows participants to choose the amount of support they are looking for.
Optional program elements include:
- talks from faculty members Dr. Holly Melgard, Dr. Eric Sneathen, Dr. Douglas Kearney, and professional guest Hazel Millar (Book*hug Press).
- Q & A sessions.
- public readings.
- one-on-one mentoring with faculty to discuss ideas, experiences, and writing obstacles.
Requirements
The program is designed for established writers with a proven publication record seeking a period of dedicated time to work on a project in any genre. Participants will benefit most if they are comfortable working autonomously in an unstructured environment.
This program is not open to:
- applicants who have taken part in a Banff Centre residency in the last year.
- current faculty members of any other Banff Centre programming.
This program is run in English and only accepts projects that are being written in English. English is the language of Banff Centre correspondence.
Eligibility
Applicants must be ages 18+ at the time of the program start date.
Domestic and international applications are welcome.
Visa Eligibility Information:
- Please note that Banff Centre programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa.
- If you are accepted into our program, you must obtain a Visitor Visa to enter Canada. Accepted participants are responsible for identifying and complying with the immigration requirements to enter Canada as a visitor from their country of origin. If you require a Visitor Visa please check the current expected processing times well in advance of applying.
Inclusivity Statement
We welcome applicants of all ages (18+), backgrounds, gender identities and expressions to apply. Artists from historically underrepresented and equity deserving groups are especially welcome.
- August 17 - Arrival
- August 18 - Orientation and welcome reception
- August 20, 22, 27 - Faculty talks
- August 21, 26, 28 - Public readings
- August 29 - Farewell reception
- August 30 - Departure
All dates are subject to change. One-on-one sessions with mentors will be booked during program dates.
