Organizer Information:

The Ou Gallery. An artist-run space since 2017, The Ou Gallery is a warm space curated to support creatives in their artistic journey on Vancouver Island. The Ou-telier is located in a historic boatbuilding workshop in the beautiful Quw’utsun/Warmland of the Cowichan Valley, just outside of downtown Duncan.

Title & Description:

Applications are open for The Ou-telier Artist Residency & Writing Retreat 2027.

This is an intimate, process-based residency hosting up to four artists at a time. The program welcomes creatives who demonstrate a commitment to their practice and are self-directed, focused, and kind. The residency is designed to be a space to decompress, gather new inspiration, and devote space and time to creativity without the pressure of a final exhibition or workshop.

Category:

Writing, Painting, Photography, Textile, & 2D Arts.

Eligibility:

  • Who: Emerging and established writers, painters, photographers, textile artists, and 2D artists. Collaborators are welcome to apply.
  • Families & Pets: The residency is currently taking a pause on hosting families. Pets are strictly not permitted.
  • Accessibility: The accommodation is not wheelchair accessible as getting to the suite requires descending a set of stairs.
  • Atmosphere: External guests and parties are strictly forbidden. This is a space to decompress and make work alongside other artists; you must be respectful of their time and space. (Note: While surrounded by nature, this is not a remote location, and traffic noise can be heard outdoors).

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Workspace: 24/hr access to a designated 10’ x 20’ studio space in a historic boatbuilding workshop with open rafters and old-growth fir floors. Facilities include work tables, a scanner, a printer, a darkroom with a Durst 605M enlarger, basic hand tools, and easels.
  • Accommodation: A thoughtfully appointed private bedroom in a shared suite (up to two artists share a kitchen and bathroom). Includes WiFi, bedding, bathroom supplies, and in-suite laundry.

Application Fee & Program Costs:

This is a fee-based residency. Artists are responsible for their own travel, meals, and supplies. Fees (excluding 5% GST) are:

  • 2 Weeks: $1,300 CAD (approx. $950 USD).
  • 3 Weeks (Offered only in February): $1,900 CAD.
  • 4 Weeks: $2,500 CAD (approx. $1,850 USD).
  • BIPOC Discount: Two 50% discounted 2-week residencies are available for BIPOC artists ($650 CAD + 5% GST).

How to Apply?

Submit your application via the official Ou Gallery website.

Key Dates:

  • Application Review Begins: April 2026.
  • Residency Period: 2027.

Location:

The Ou Gallery, Duncan, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada.

Contact Information:

Website & Application Link: https://www.theougallery.com/