Contemporary French Literature

About the Open Call

This 12-day contemporary writing residency provides French citizens with the opportunity to explore craft and voice while introducing them to the North American publishing market. Participants workshop original prose or poetry manuscripts with faculty of accomplished writers and translators of French and English. Faculty members and a professional guest will share their work, present talks, field questions about translation, and help authors hone manuscripts in progress. The self-directed residency offers a flexible format, allowing participants to choose the amount of programming and support. Optional elements include thematic talks, one-on-one mentoring, Q&A sessions, workshops, and public readings. All participants receive individual accommodation and a private studio for writing, fostering a community of artistic peers.

What is Offered

The program offers a 12-day writing residency, workshops, one-on-one mentoring, talks, public readings, individual accommodation, private studio space, flexible meal plans, access to Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives, and campus facilities including the Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre. A 100% scholarship covering tuition, accommodation, meals, and an economy-class travel award is provided.

Requirements

Applicants must be French citizens residing in France or specified French territories, 18+ years old, and have a working knowledge of English. They should be accomplished, professional writers published in books, magazines, newspapers, anthologies, or literary journals, though writers with less experience may be accepted based on merit. Participants should be comfortable working autonomously on a specific literary project or creating new works. A Visitor Visa for Canada must be obtained if accepted, and a thank you letter to the donor is required.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete an online form and upload materials including a resume, cover letter, project proposal, portfolio (10-page excerpt of work-in-progress), and complete the financial aid section. There is no application fee for this program.