Programs at The Banff Centre

Writing Studio 2009

Program dates: April 27, 2009 - May 30, 2009

Application deadline: November 21, 2008

Writing genres offered: Fiction and other narrative prose, and Poetry.

Program Information

Director: Greg Hollingshead - Fiction & other narrative prose, Edna Alford - Associate Director, Fiction & other narrative prose, Don McKay - Associate Director, poetry,
Faculty: Colin Bernhardt - Voice and relaxation, Marilyn Bowering - Fiction and other narrative prose, Dionne Brand - Poetry, Steven Galloway - Fiction & other narrative prose,, Jack Hodgins - Fiction & other narrative prose, Isabel Huggan - Fiction & other narrative prose, Karen Solie - Poetry,
The benefits that I take away from this experience, both specifically related to the manuscript that I am currently writing and in my general self-image as a confident writer, are immeasurable.
Kristy McKay, Edmonton, Alberta

About the Writing Studio

The Writing Studio is a five-week program offering poets and writers of fiction and other narrative prose the time, space, and support they need to pursue a writing project, with the benefit of editorial consultation. Designed for literary writers at an early stage in their careers, the program offers an extended period of uninterrupted writing time, one-on-one editorial assistance from experienced writers/editors, and an opportunity to engage with a community of working writers. The Writing Studio is an ideal environment for artistic inspiration and growth. Situated in the majestic Canadian Rockies, The Banff Centre offers a unique natural setting for artists of all disciplines to realize their creative potential.

All participants may work with at least two or, in the case of poets, three faculty mentors during the five weeks of the program. As part of the Banff Summer Arts Festival, Writing Studio participants and faculty offer a weekly reading series. To help writers develop their public reading skills, we offer one-on-one sessions with a voice and relaxation instructor. Activities other than the writer’s individual work (i.e., guided hikes, social gatherings, concerts, and performances) are voluntary, and participants are encouraged to structure their time to suit their own needs and goals.

Enrolment is limited to 24 writers.

Work Spaces

Participants are housed in single rooms that also serve as their private work spaces. Writers should bring their own computers or laptops, as well as software, if they wish to use a computer on a full-time basis in their rooms. A PC and a Macintosh computer are available for general email and printing purposes. Photocopying services are available at several public locations, and free wireless internet access is available throughout the campus.

All programs, faculty, dates, fees, and offers of financial assistance are subject to change. Non-refundable fees and deposits will be retained upon cancellation. Any other fees are refunded at the discretion of The Banff Centre.