A thematic residency for artists, architects, curators, writers, designers and theorists who create works related to the representation of space.

During a seven week period, artists, architects, curators, writers and theorists will gather to think about, discuss, and create works related to the representation of space. Within this broader context of the representation of space — whether architectural, sculptural, virtual, social, image-based or conceptual — of special interest will be those representations or structures that exemplify a lacking — whether it be weakness, inconsistency, contingency, impossibility or failure.

The idea of imagining the impossible in architecture lends itself to the practice of fiction. To propose the impossible, or even the unlikely, implies a pre-determined failure of sorts, but fiction provides an avenue for creative expression freed from applied design or realities. The residency proposes a gathering of artists, approaches and ideas to the unbuilt that will examine a contemporary approach to space and its construction, representation and imagining.

Criteria

The thematic residency program seeks proposals from artists, architects, curators, theorists, writers and other cultural producers, who have completed their basic training (not necessarily in a formal educational institution), produced an independent body of work, and received recognition of their peers through public presentation of their work.

Assessment criteria for Informal Architecture residency are based on artistic merit and relevance to the theme. Consideration is given to fair representation of artistic specialization, gender, Canada's two official languages, Aboriginal peoples, and the various regions and cultures of Canada and the world. The Banff Centre's ability to technically support proposed projects is considered in adjudicating applicants.