Crime Writing 2026

Crime Writing 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 this two-week residency crime writers can take advantage of one-on-one mentorship opportunities with faculty, group discussions, and a community of artistic peers. 

Faculty include crime writing specialists Nita Prose, Wayne Arthurson, David Heska Wanbli Weiden, and professional guest Alison Callahan (Simon & Schuster).

All the program elements are optional, giving participants the flexibility to choose the amount of support they want.

Description

This two-week self-directed residency offers crime writers:

• thematic teachings from faculty members and professional guests.
• a community of artistic peers.
• one-on-one workshopping with faculty.
• optional group sessions exploring useful literary tools, aspects, and devices.
• an opportunity to showcase your work at a public reading.
• a personal studio space equipped for creative work.

Requirements

The program is designed to cater to emerging and established writers focusing on crime and thrillers, providing them with tailored opportunities for professional development and creative growth.

Participants will benefit most if they are comfortable working autonomously in an unstructured environment. The program suits those focused on:

• working on a specific project.
• creating new works within the genre.

This program is run in English and only accepts projects that are being written in English. English is the language of Banff Centre correspondence.