One-Week Artist Retreat on Howe Island
This is a unique opportunity for one emerging or mid-career textile artist to make space for their practice, explore new artistic directions in a natural environment, and have the opportunity for guidance by textile artist and educator, Leisa Rich. This retreat is made possible by the Rich Foundation and will take place on either July 15 to 22 or August 26 to September 2, depending on the jury-selected artist's availability.
The retreat includes:
- Complimentary use of a guest house. This includes a private bathroom, air conditioning, outdoor shower, indoor and outdoor studio spaces. In inclement weather, an indoor shower is available.
- Use of equipment. This includes sewing machine, scissors, iron, ironing board, heat press, photocopier, and basic supplies for sketching, drawing and watercolour, and more.
- A mentorship opportunity. You can work with Leisa Rich for a day in her studio and learn some of the techniques she implements in her work.
- Opportunity to enjoy island life. You may swim in the St. Lawrence River or a heated swimming pool, enjoy a hot tub, electric bicycle, Thousand Island sight-seeing, fresh garden vegetables and more!
- Three vegan home-cooked dinners.
The artist covers:
- Transportation to and from Howe Island. Please note that the residency is on a remote island and accessed by ferry (5 minutes to cross), with no retail stores or gas station. The nearest town is Gananoque, which is 5 minutes away from the ferry dock. Kingston is a 15-minute drive from the mainland dock.
- Meals – other than the three dinners supplied. You may shop for groceries in town. There will be a small fridge, and coffee and tea makers in the cottage.
- Materials other than what is specified above. The selected artist should bring a variety of materials they would like to explore or incorporate in their work while in the residency.
Exhibit at the Textile Museum of Canada:
- Installation of an exhibit in the Learning Hub of the Textile Museum of Canada. This is open to all visitors and free. It is an opportunity for someone finding it challenging to obtain funding or affordable exhibit space to create and present their work for the public and to build a resume.
