Independent Residencies in the Leighton Artists Studios

Overview

Independent residencies in the Leighton Artists Studios offer you the ability to delve into your work as a solitary, self-directed retreat, as well as the option to engage within the larger artists’ community at Banff Centre through daily campus interactions, and attending talks and shows.

The nine unique studios are each designed by a distinguished Canadian architect and provide a perfect setting for individuals and collectives from a wide variety of artistic genres to create new work. Leighton artists contribute significantly to culture and the arts in Alberta, throughout Canada, and around the world.

What does the program offer?

The studios provide all the amenities necessary for you to immerse yourself completely in your work. Each is fully furnished and equipped with a computer (PC or Mac subject to availability), printer, wi-fi, kitchenette, washroom, and telephone. Three studios have pianos, three can accommodate writers, and two are designed with storage, lighting, and flexible space to accommodate visual artists. The studios appeal to a variety of disciplines; some are large enough to accommodate collaborative projects.

Although all studios are equipped with kitchenettes, artists do not live in their studios; on-site accommodation and meal plans are provided separately. 

Leighton Artists Studio stays are self-directed residencies with little access to facilities outside of the studios. Access to limited technical support, equipment, and additional facilities may be available on a rental basis. Please submit specific requests when you apply. If your project requires significant support, please consider applying through one of our other artist in residence programs in Performing Arts, Music, and Visual Arts.  

Who should apply?

Artists with a professional standing in their field and emerging artists of promising talent are encouraged to apply. Applications are accepted from artists in a variety of discplines: writers, composers, singer-songwriters, visual artists, screenwriters, playwrights, literary translators, curators, art theorists, and professionals working in theatre, dance, and film at the conceptualization or research stage of a project. 

Leighton artists have created novels, poetry, plays, songs, chamber works, and operas. They have choreographed dance and music theatre, curated exhibitions and shows, and have created important visual art, films, new media, and television programming. 

Please note, preference is given to successful applicants who have not accessed the Leighton Studios previously. Past participants are asked to wait at least one year before applying again. If your application was unsuccessful previously, you may submit a new application but it must be for a new project.

Residency Dates

Applications are being accepted for the following time periods:

September 1 - October 24, 2019 and November 17, 2019 - March 31, 2020 (no availability between October 25 - November 16, 2019).

Residences must be at least one week in length to a maximum of four weeks.