Literary Journalism

'What works of literature might exist if more writers had a cabin of one’s own, surrounded by a community of artists to share, inspire, and to learn from."
Craille Maguire Gillies, Literary Journalism alumnus

About Literary Journalism

Literary Journalism offers eight established writers of non-fiction an opportunity to develop a major essay, memoir, or feature piece. A month-long residency in one of the Centre's Leighton Artists' Colony studios enables writers to work on their manuscript during individual consultations with faculty and during round-table discussions. Participants are able to advance their professional development through work with the program chair, experienced and exacting faculty editors, and through interaction with each other, invited guest speakers, and with artists from other fields.

Applicants are usually accomplished journalists and writers who have been published in national or international magazines, newspapers, anthologies, or literary journals. However, writers with less experience have also been accepted to the program based on merit. By placing writers in a situation designed to challenge and stimulate their creativity, the program encourages the exploration of new ideas in journalism and experimentation with writing a piece that might otherwise be difficult to complete. For examples of articles written by past program participants, please consult the following anthologies published by the Banff Centre Press: Why are you Telling me This? Eleven Acts of Intimate Journalism in 1997, Taking Risks: Literary Journalism from the Edge in 1998, To Arrive Where You Are in 2000. Also see Cabin Fever: The Best New Canadian Non-fiction, published by Thomas Allen Publishers in cooperation with The Banff Centre.

Who Should Apply

This program is designed for established non-fiction writers seeking a professional development opportunity in a community of peers. If you are seeking a period of dedicated time to develop a specific piece, with the guidance of an experienced writer/editor, this residency is for you. Past participants of the program have represented thought-provoking writers across Canada, however international applications are equally welcomed. For more specifics, see the Eligibility section.

Arrival and Departure dates

Participants are should plan to arrive in Banff on Tuesday, July 2, 2013, and depart on Tuesday, July 30, 2013.

Want to extend your stay?

Self-directed Writing Residencies run year-round and provide the time and space for focused work. Extend your stay before or after this program by applying for a Self-directed Residency.

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