This two-week residency encourages the exploration of new ideas in the writing of memoir. Designed to challenge and stimulate, the program aims to inspire creative pieces of non-fiction and to assist the writers in their completion.
A preeminent space for long-form creative non-fiction and journalism, this residency emphasizes the strengths of thorough and articulate reporting, distinctive storytelling, and literary devices.
Description
This 12-day self-directed residency provides teaching from faculty members Dionne Brand, Kyo Maclear, Ivan E. Coyote, and professional guest Simon Thibault (Goose Lane). This residency is a self-directed program that offers time and space for writers to focus and re-energize their writing practice while connecting with an artistic literary community. In addition to a single room and a small private studio, you will be surrounded by a community of artistic peers. You will have the opportunity to attend inspiring talks and performances and meet with guest faculty to consult on your work.
Optional elements include:
- one-on-one mentoring sessions with faculty to discuss ideas, experiences and obstacles that participants may be encountering with their writing.
- Q&A sessions
- Public events
As a flexible self-guided program, Memoir Writing allows you to choose the amount of support you are looking for. All program elements are optional.
Scholarships are available.
For more information and to apply.
Application DeadlineJune 03, 2026
Program Dates Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 16, 202
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
Memoir Writing is designed for writers seeking a professional development opportunity in a community of peers with the guidance of an experienced writer/editor, as each participant prepares a long form piece.
Applicants should be experienced professionals, active in the field of creative non-fiction and/or journalism including print or electronic media. This program is open to non-fiction writers, journalists, freelance critics or curators, artists, and academics, with an emphasis on those who can write for a lay audience with passion, vigour, and charm—and those who have a portfolio to prove it.
This program is run in English and only accepts projects that are being written in English. English is the language of Banff Centre correspondence.
Total Fee Before Scholarships for tuition, accommodation and a meal plan
$3 602.55
Scholarship Amount Applied
$2 462.78
Total You Pay After Scholarship
$1 139.78
Application Fee
$65 for individuals, $35 for applicants who identify as Indigenous.
This non-refundable fee covers the full cost of processing your application, including the SlideRoom fee.
Scholarships
We are pleased to offer scholarships to support participants in our program. Below are details regarding the scholarship amounts and information on how to apply. Details are outlined below:
- Banff Centre Arts Scholarship: All arts participants receive a scholarship covering 100% of tuition and 50% of meal plan and accommodation costs, made possible through generous endowments and donations.
- Canadian Indigenous Scholarship: Canadian Indigenous applicants receive support covering 100% of tuition, meal plan and accommodation costs.
To be considered for Banff Centre scholarships, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials.