All About the Leighton Artist Studios

Named in honour of David Leighton, President of Banff Centre from 1970 to 1982, and his wife, Peggy, the Leighton Artist Studios were formally opened in 1985. Each studio is thoughtfully designed to stimulate creative work. 

Eight architect-designed studios cater to a range of disciplines including: 

– composing and songwriting 

- writing for stage and screen 

- literary arts and translation 

- visual arts, including critical and curatorial writing, and darkroom photography

- inter-disciplinary artistic practices 

The Painter House, which was added to the Leighton Artist Studios in 2008 is suitable for small collectives and ensembles (up to 8 people). 

The Crich studio, which features a private darkroom for analogue photo processing, was added in 1988.

The Leighton Studios are best suited to artists who want to work independently – who are not looking to be part of a residency cohort but would appreciate the time, space and supportive environment to focus intensely on a project or to work through creative blocks. It is a program that supports introspection and provides artists with space to experiment, explore and learn.

There is no access to specialized production facilities, technical support, or musical instrument/equipment rentals in the Leighton Artist Studios. Artists must make sure to bring the equipment and materials that they need. Applications are adjudicated by discipline experts and assessed on the basis of artistic merit, and suitability of the project for the studio space.