Leighton Artist Studio Residency: Solo 26/27

Application Deadline October 29, 2025

Program Dates Apr 06, 2026 - Mar 26, 2027

Program Duration: Minimum 2 weeks, maximum 6 weeks.

Self-Directed Residencies for individual artists in the Leighton Studios

Overview

A Leighton Studio Residency offers creative professionals 2 to 6 weeks of focused, self-directed time in private, purpose-built studios set in the forested surroundings of Banff Centre. This competitive program supports independent research, creative exploration, and project development, with the flexibility to work in solitude or engage with Banff Centre’s broader artistic community. 

You will benefit from independent management of your time in residence, choosing when to focus, collaborate, explore and create. 

Description

Leighton Studios are purpose-built, private workspaces designed to support a range of creative disciplines. Each studio offers a distinct environment, allowing applicants to indicate a preferred space that best supports their practice.

• Writers and curators may prefer the Hemingway, Henriquez, or Evamy studios—quiet, contemplative spaces designed for literary or research-based projects.

• Musicians, composers, and songwriters may select the Valentine, Davidson, or Cardinal studios, which accommodate solo composition or sound-based work.

• Visual Artists, designers, animators, and filmmakers often choose the Thom or Gerin-Lajoie studios, which provide more space for physical creation and experimentation. 

Learn more about each studio’s features and find the best fit for your project.

This residency is designed for independent work and does not include production support, technical assistance, or access to specialized facilities. Applicants are responsible for bringing all materials, equipment, and supplies required for their project.

Requirements

This residency is open to creative professionals with a demonstrated record of accomplishment and a clearly defined project. Including but not limited to:

• Curatorial Practice: research and writing 

• Design: architectural, environmental, interactive, visual, functional, and fashion

• Music: composition and songwriting

• Theatre Arts: dramaturgy, playwriting, and theatrical development

• Visual Arts: drawing, painting, digital art, and multimedia

• Writing: literature, poetry, non-fiction, journalism, and screenwriting

• Interdisciplinary Projects: work integrating multiple creative disciplines

Applicants will benefit most if they are comfortable working autonomously in an unstructured environment. This residency is best suited for those who:

• work independently without production support, instrument rentals, or access to specialized production facilities 

• have a project that fits within the footprint of a Leighton Studio 

• provide all materials, equipment, and supplies required for their project