Virtual Reality Storytelling Fundamentals 2027

Digital Arts Intensive


 

Overview  

VR Storytelling Fundamentals is an intensive two-week program for artists and creative practitioners interested in storytelling, performance, design, interactive media, and related disciplines. Participants will be introduced to the core concepts, tools, and workflows of immersive narrative design in virtual reality.

Through a combination of theory and practice, participants will explore spatial storytelling, writing and directing for 360° environments, spatial audio, and end-to-end VR production using 360° camera technologies. The program culminates in the creation of prototype VR experiences and the development of a personalized roadmap for future work in this rapidly evolving field.

Description

Throughout the program, participants will:

  • Explore the creative, technical, and narrative foundations of virtual reality storytelling through seminars and discussions.
  • Gain hands-on experience through practical labs focused on VR tools, workflows, and immersive content creation.
  • Experiment with storytelling techniques unique to 360° and immersive environments.
  • Collaborate with faculty and peers through interdisciplinary exercises and creative projects.
  • Engage in research and development activities investigating emerging approaches to immersive media.
  • Develop and present prototype VR experiences in a supportive learning environment.

Who Should Apply

Multidisciplinary artists and creative practitioners with professional experience at any stage of their career are encouraged to apply. No prior experience in virtual reality is required.

This program is designed for creative practitioners working in areas such as:

  • Directing and storytelling
  • Performance and movement
  • Design for live, digital, and immersive experiences
  • Sound, music, and audio production
  • Video, digital media, and content creation
  • Game design and interactive media
  • Producing and project leadership

Applicants should have an active creative practice and a strong interest in exploring new approaches to storytelling and audience engagement through immersive technologies.

 

Deadline
Residency Length
5 days - 6 months
Languages
English
Average Number of Artists in Residence at a Time
15
Collaborative Residency
Must apply and be accepted individually
May apply as a team
Discipline
Book Arts
Ceramics/Clay Arts/Pottery
Criticism
Digital Fabrication
Digital Media
Drawing
Environmental Arts
Illustration
Installation Arts
Interdisciplinary Arts
Mixed Media
Painting
Paper Arts
Photography
Printmaking
Sculpture
Sound Art
Textile & Fiber Arts/Weaving
Visual Arts
Woodworking
Companions
N/A
Country of Residence
Open to artists based anywhere in the world
Family Friendly
N/A
Stage of Career
Any stage of career
Additional Expectations/Opportunities
Participate in public programming
Participate in open studio with fellow residents
Give artist talk or presentation
Accessible Housing
ADA Compliant
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Meals Provided
Some meals (at least 2 meals provided)
Studios/Special Equipment
Private Studios
Dedicated Studio/Shop Technicians - Full Time
Exhibition / Installation Space
Ceramics Workspace
Electric Wheels
Kick Wheels
Slab Roller
Clay Mixers
Plaster Room
Raku Kiln
Electric Kiln
Gas Kiln
Dedicated Metal Shop
Plasma Cutter
Anvils, Stakes + Hammers
Hydraulic Press
Soldering Workspace
Gas/Oxy Torches
Finishing Room
Buffing Machine
Casting Room
Electroforming + Etching Room
Darkroom (Black And White)
Darkroom (Color)
Lighting Studio/Green Screen
Large Format Printer / Plotter
Large Format Scanner
Film Scanner
Printers + Scanner
Photo + Video Editing Suite
Painting Workspace (Oil)
Easels
Drawing Benches
Printmaking Workspaces
Book Arts Facilities
Etching Press
Glass Inking Table
Drying Racks
Aquatint Box
Hot Plates
Paper Soaking Sinks
Paper Tearing Table
Acid Room
Silkscreen Studio
Lithography Studio
Light Tables
Large Sinks
Large Exposure Unit
Washout Room
Papermaking Studio
Textiles Workspace
Fiber Arts Workspace
Dye Area
Padded Screen Print Tables
Hooded Dye Mixing Station
Drying Room
Well-ventilated Spray Room
Washer And Dryer
Dedicated Wood Shop
Woodworking Tools
Tablesaw
Bandsaw
Router Table
Wood Bending Equipment
Jointer
Planer
Wood Vises And Wood Working Table
Studios/Facilities Accessibility
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Type of Housing
Private bedroom in a shared housing facility on campus
Additional Eligibility Information

Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date. 

Participants must be available to attend the program and elements for its entire duration; variable participation dates will not be considered.

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.
Number of Artists Accepted in Most Current Year
20
Total Applicant Pool in Most Current Year
20
Artist Stipend
Travel Stipend/Material Stipends
Residency Fees
Fee Details

Total Fee Before Scholarships for tuition, accommodation and a meal plan $5 730.90

Scholarship Amount Applied $3 889.73

 

Grant/Scholarship/other Funding Support
Grant/Scholarship/Other Funding Support Details

Total You Pay After Scholarship $1 841.18

We are pleased to offer a range of scholarships to support participants in our programs. Details are outlined below:

  • Banff Centre Arts Scholarship: All arts participants receive a scholarship covering 100% of tuition and 25% 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.

Application Fee
65
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Application Type
Open application