We’ve been welcoming artists to Brier Island since 2018.

How to apply:

To apply, send an e-mail with the following to hammernsky@gmail.com:

1. Artist c.v.

2. Statement of intent

3. Images of your work

4. If you want to apply for a Fellowship, see the Fellowship page

5. Before applying, read the FAQ page. Reading the FAQ page will probably answer most of your questions.

What to expect:

1. Submit application. Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll get back to you on whether or not you’ve been accepted.

2. Once accepted, reply with dates. We will then ask you to reply with two preferred time slots.

3. Sign Agreement. At the same time as sending us your dates, we will send you a Residency contract which must be signed and returned to us by e-mail.

4. Pay deposit. Once we’ve agreed on the timing of your residency, you will send your 50% deposit payment to hammernsky@gmail.com (by Interac or Paypal). Important: the deposit is not refundable!

5. Pay balance one month before arrival date. One month before your residency begins, you’ll receive a reminder e-mail from us that the balance is due.

6. Get ready! Pack your bags because you’re coming to Hammer and Sky!

General:

Scheduling: Artists are responsible for organizing their own schedules, Hammer and Sky is a self-directed residency.

Timing: The residency is available in two week intervals. When applying, let us know 2 choices of your preferred start dates. Residencies start on Sunday afternoon and finish 2 weeks later on Saturday morning.

Cost: $750 per week (companions are free - but will share your studio), two week minimum stay.

Off Season: From November to March - save big. Inquire for details.

Payment Terms: 50% due upon acceptance and 50% due one month before arrival. Important: Deposits are non-refundable!

Non-smoking: All the facilities at Hammer and Sky are non-smoking.

No pets: We don’t allow pets. Note that we own a friendly border collie that wanders around the premises.

The facilities:

The Buckman House: The Buckman house is a shared accommodation. The house is a bungalow located across the street from the church and it has views over Brier Island’s Big Meadow Bog Trail. It’s comfortable and well renovated with two separate bedrooms. Each bedroom has two single beds and a private bathroom. It has a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room that seats six and a living room with wood stove. The house also has air conditioning (seldom necessary). If you choose to bring a companion (free) they will share your room.

The Loft: The Loft is a cozy space with a stunning view of the Grand passage and the village of Westport. It has a balcony and a small living room (sofa, coffee table, and two arm chairs) and mini kitchen (microwave, countertop oven, countertop cooktop and a small fridge). The Loft has a double bed and a bathroom with shower. If you choose to bring a companion (free) they will share your room.

The Church: The church is a large, open and beautiful bright space that used to seat 250 people. At the residency, the church serves as a studio space for printers and it is a common space for the artists to gather and sometimes go over the days work with a glass of wine.

The Studios: There are three private studios on the 14 acre lot. The residents walk up to the studios that are about 100 meters from the church (rubber boots are recommended). The studios were built in post and beam style and measure 12 feet by 16 feet with exposed beams, a balcony, privacy, great natural light and spectacular views on a clear day. Most residents say the studios are inspiring and beautiful. Note that we encourage artists to leave some evidence of their stay, like a drawing on a studio wall or something else…

The Fiber Arts studio: Coming in summer 2026! Get ready for a breath-taking studio built over the sea with private quarters and looms!

Note: Applicants are responsible for travel expenses, food, insurance, art supplies, materials, shipping costs or other expenses.