Overview
Comics and Graphic Novels is a self-directed residency that considers how creatives use this unique media as a place for personal narrative, memoir, and exploration. The residency provides writers with the time and space to delve deep into their creative project away from the constraints of everyday life, take advantage of an artistic community of peers, and consult with experienced faculty.
Residency faculty and guests specializing in comics, illustration, publishing, and writing include Matt Madden, Bishakh Som, Tom Hart, and professional guest Michel Vrana (Black Eye Books). Participants can take part in individual mentoring sessions with faculty as well as group sessions to discuss their work and project.
Description
This two-week residency has a flexible format that allows participants to choose the amount of programming and support they are looking for.
Optional elements include:
- thematic talks from specialist faculty and guests.
- one-on-one mentoring sessions with faculty to discuss ideas, experiences and obstacles that participants may be encountering in the genre of comics and graphic novels.
- Q & A sessions.
- workshops to explore techniques, aspects, and devices writers may find useful in their practice.
- public readings where writers can share their work.
All participants will have individual accommodation and a small private studio where they can focus, reconnect, and re-energize their writing practice.
Requirements
The program is designed to cater to experienced writers, graphic novelists/cartoonists, writer/illustrators, or writer and illustrator pairings looking to explore the future of visual and literary techniques and focus on works in progress.
Participants will benefit most if they are comfortable working autonomously in an unstructured environment. The program suits those focused on:
- working on a specific project.
- creating new works.
While this program is run in English, it will accept projects that are being written in English, French, Bengali and Spanish. English is the language of Banff Centre correspondence.
Eligibility
Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date.
Domestic and international applications are welcome.
Visa Eligibility Information:
- Please note that Banff Centre programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa.
- If you are accepted into our program, you must obtain a Visitor Visa to enter Canada. Accepted participants are responsible for identifying and complying with the immigration requirements to enter Canada as a visitor from their country of origin. If you require a Visitor Visa please check the current expected processing times well in advance of applying.
Inclusivity Statement
We welcome applicants of all ages (18+), backgrounds, gender identities and expressions to apply. Artists from historically underrepresented and equity deserving groups are especially welcome.
