Studio Residencies: Individuals and Collectives

A testimonial from educator and artist Ashley Kuramoto (based in Nanoose Bay):

Walking the trails and immersing myself in the landscape not only fueled my work but also reinforced my confidence as a creator. This residency has had a profound impact on my personal and professional journey, and I am certain it will be reflected in what I believe will be one of my strongest books yet. My sincere thanks to McLoughlin Gardens for this remarkable experience.

Every summer, the McLoughlin Gardens offers local creatives, as well as those from further afield, the opportunity to spend a week in residence to deepen their creative practice, collaborate with a fellow artist or advance a particular project. The call goes out in early January, with applications due by mid-February. A jury of local writers and artists reviews the applications, aiming for a balance of emerging and established artists. In 2024, members of a number of artist collectives attended the residency as a group. The cottage can accommodate up to four guests.

Currently, the cost for a one-week subsidized residency for one artist is $600 + GST. With each additional person the fee increases by $300 + GST per week.

Payment and refund policy
A deposit of 50% is due upon confirmation of the artist’s residency dates. The residency may be cancelled 30 days before arrival for a 50% refund of the deposit. A full refund (less a 10% administration fee) will be provided if another artist is found who is available to take the scheduled dates. (The McLoughlin Gardens generates a waiting-list from previous applicants.) If the cancellation occurs within 30 days of arrival and no replacement is found, we are unable to offer a refund.

Accommodation and location
The seaside cottage is comfortable, fully furnished, and equipped with Wifi.  Regarding accessibility, there are a few steps up into the cottage but no ramp. Inside, the lower level can accommodate those with mobility limitations. There is a main level bathroom and bedroom but the space was not built to accessibility codes.

Please note: the cottage is located within the boundaries of a regional park. The main access for park visitors is also the road that leads down a winding road to the cottage. For that reason, we ask guests to plan to be in residence for the week, with minimal excursions up and down the hill. We also ask guests to move their vehicles after unloading (parking them in a pull-out at the top of the hill). There are no laundry facilities on site and no smoking or campfires are permitted at the park.

Applications
The window for applications is now open. Applications will be accepted until midnight on February 15.
Please download the Studio Residency application form and instructions here:
McLoughlin Gardens Studio Residency 2025.

Dates
The following dates are available for a one-week residency at the McLoughlin Gardens in 2025. Note: The residency runs from Sunday 3:00 p.m. to the following Sunday at 11:00 a.m.

March 30 - April 6
April 6 - 13
April 13 - 20
April 20 - 27
April 27 - May 4
June 29 - July 6
August 10 - 17
August 17 - 24
September 7 - 14
September 14 - 21
September 21 - 28
September 28 - October 5
October 5 - 12
October 19 - 26
October 26 - November 2