Interplay Opera Pub, photo by Rita Taylor.
gathering: A coming together of people in shared space and spirit — to connect, to listen, to create, and to be changed by the presence of others.
conversation: An exchange of ideas, stories, and energy — a dialogue that invites understanding, sparks inspiration, and builds community.
Gathering and conversation — I can’t think of a better way to describe what we do here at Banff Centre!
Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity has always been a space for people from around the world to come together, share ideas, learn, and grow. So much artistic exchange happens here, from the dining room to the studios to the stages.
The creative convergence of artists working in all disciplines at Banff Centre has transformed the careers and lives of thousands of participants in our programs.
It is the ultimate artistic laboratory.
Katarina Thorsen, Literary Arts Spring Thematic: Graphic Novels and Visual Narrative Residency, photo by Rita Taylor.
For Literary Arts alumna, Katerina Thorsen, her residency was transformative. Her graphic novel, Salt Green Death, created during her time at the centre, had caught the eye of guest faculty Andy Brown of Conundrum Press. Andy offered to publish the book and we are thrilled to say it was released in May of 2025.
Shared experiences can be a powerful antidote to all the chaos happening in the world right now. Whether it’s artists collaborating on a new project, thought leaders exchanging ideas, or community members engaging in meaningful dialogue, the magic of gathering and conversation is at the heart of what we do.
Your philanthropic support helps more artists find their voice and community here.
Your generosity enables us to continue our work, to provide a space where artistic potential flourishes, and to bring people together in meaningful ways. It is through your support that we can offer programs that inspire and transform — and that we can continue to be a place where gathering and conversation lead to lasting impact.
Chris Lorway, President & CEO
Over the past year, we saw how powerful gathering and conversation can be. From artist residencies to leadership programs, the impact of these interactions has been profound.
We saw artists collaborate to create bold new work. We witnessed discussions that sparked new initiatives — and we experienced beautiful moments of shared understanding that have strengthened our community.
These wonderful outcomes were possible because of the generosity of people like you!
As we look to the future, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. We have ambitious plans to expand our programs, to reach even more artists and leaders, and to deepen our impact.
Thank you for helping sustain our vision and mission, and for helping us continue to be an extraordinary place where gathering and conversation can change the world.
Please join us in keeping the spirit of connection and creativity thriving by making a gift today!
With gratitude,
Josephine Ridge
Executive Director, Arts