Leighton Artist Studio Residency: Groups 26/27

About the Open Call

The Group Leighton Studio Residency offers creative teams and collaborators 1 to 3 weeks of focused, self-directed time in private, purpose-built studios set in the forested surroundings of Banff Centre. This competitive program supports collaborative research, creative exploration, and project development, with the flexibility to work in solitude or engage with Banff Centre’s broader artistic community. Your group will benefit from independent management of your time in residence, choosing when to focus, collaborate, explore and create. Leighton Studios are purpose-built, private workspaces designed to support a range of creative disciplines. For collaborative residencies, three Leighton Studios can accommodate groups or duos working together. Each studio offers a distinct environment, allowing applicants to indicate a preferred space that best supports their practice: For groups of 2-8 people working collaboratively, the Painter House studio will accommodate your creative brainstorming and discussions. This large residence-style studio allows for collaboration and development of ideas in a comfortable environment. For duos, you may also consider the Thom or Gerin-Lajoie studios. This residency is designed for independent group work and does not include production support, technical assistance, or access to specialized facilities. Groups are responsible for bringing all materials, equipment, and supplies required for their project.

What is Offered

The program fee includes a single bedroom on the Banff Centre campus, a meal plan (equivalent to $68 credit per day), and private studio space in one of the Leighton studios. Participants also get free access to the Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre (swimming pool, climbing gym, fitness suite), access to the Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives, and special artist rates or complimentary access for ticketed performances.

Requirements

This residency is open to groups of 2 – 8 creative professionals with a demonstrated record of accomplishment and a clearly defined collaborative project. Applicants must be ages 18+ and are not eligible if they have participated in a Leighton Studio residency in the past three years. Applicants should be comfortable working autonomously, without production support, instrument rentals, or access to specialized production facilities, and must provide all necessary materials, equipment, and supplies for their project. Both domestic and international applicants are welcome, but international participants are responsible for obtaining a Visitor Visa to enter Canada (Canadian Student Visas are not eligible). The Leighton Studios are accessed via a gravel pathway and are not wheelchair accessible.

How to Apply

To apply, applicants must complete the Online Form, pay the application fee ($65 for groups, $35 for Indigenous applicants), and then upload required materials via SlideRoom. Uploaded materials include a two-page resume for each group member, a two-page project proposal, and 5-8 examples of previous or current work (portfolio). Applicants should also complete the Financial Aid question in SlideRoom to be eligible for financial assistance. The lead applicant handles the initial application form and fee payment on behalf of the group.