The Winter Writers Retreat is a self-directed program that offers time and space for writers to retreat, reconnect, and re-energize their writing practice. In addition to a single room, and a small private studio, you will be surrounded by a community of artistic peers with the opportunity to attend inspiring talks, performances, and meet with guest faculty to consult on your work.

What does the program offer?

This self-directed residency offers the opportunity to work away from the constraints of everyday life. Delve deep into your creative project and take advantage of the artistic community of your peers around you. This program provides opportunities for consultations with mentors, and optional group sessions led by guest mentors that allow writers to explore literary tools, aspects, and devices that you may find useful in your practice. You may also sign up for additional walks and day trips within Banff National Park as well as campus-wide activities organized by our participant resources team.

This 13-day residency provides thematic teaching from faculty members, Q&A sessions, public events, and one-on-one workshopping. Instructors will discuss ideas, experiences, and obstacles that participants may be encountering with their writing across genre. This flexible program allows you to choose the amount of support you are looking for. All program elements are optional.

Who should apply?

We welcome writers from all backgrounds, and all gender identities and expressions. Writers in all creative genres are invited to apply. The program is designed for emerging and established writers with a proven publication record seeking a period of dedicated time to work on a project in any genre.

*Financial Aid of 100% of tuition and 50% of food and accommodation is available for this program.

Program Dates: January 16 – 28, 2023
Application Deadline: September 21, 2022

For more information and to register visit banffcentre.ca.

(Pictured below: Program faculty Lisa Robertson and Nasser Hussain.)