Island Mountain AIR: an Artist-In-Residence program
Mission Statement
To offer residencies to professional and emerging artists and groups from around the world who are looking to work on their creative projects in our unique community.
Image: Leah Bridges
The self-directed Artist-In-Residence program provides affordable space for artists of all mediums to create in. It is intended for, but not limited to, visual artists, filmmakers, curators, musicians, producers, directors, writers, and photographers. Artists also have the opportunity to facilitate outreach programs such as artist talks, concerts, studio visits, workshops and exhibitions. These activities are intended to promote interaction and professional development, and provide access for the community to a diverse range of arts practices.
“With three weeks to spare…
…it was effortless to sink deep into concentration with our work. Any time in Wells is always an immersing experience. The hardest part was driving out of town.”
Brendan Steele of the band, Red Haven, IMA’s first artists-in-residence
Cost
IMA is dedicated to making Wells affordable for visiting artists. We provide scholarships and bursaries to all our programs.
Click here for the current residency rates
Costs will vary depending on the spaces that you choose.
Artists and Arts Workers can apply online at here, by using the form below, or by calling 1-250-994-3466.
There are currently dates available for 2025, 2026 and beyond for stays of a week to a month or more. Availability is limited in June, July and August.
For more information, email residence@imarts.com
For further information about the community of Wells visit www.wells.ca
Artist Studios - Visual Arts
There are two 775 sq ft Visual Arts Studios with 12 ft ceilings. They are located on the 2nd floor of the Wells-Barkerville Cultural and Recreation Centre, more colloquially known as the school!
The Visual Arts Studios feature large eastern-facing windows, wall space, tables for working, easels, printing/drying racks, a book press, small etching press and a community-sourced art book library. Less than 500m from the “Nest,” both boast lots of natural light and high ceilings.
The Island Mountain Arts Public Gallery
The Gallery boasts 12ft ceilings, lots of natural light, and tons of wall-space. Mobility accessible from Pooley street. The gallery is dark during periods of Fall, Winter and Spring, making it a studio option during these times.
You can find a list of Gallery Assets and Inventory here
You can find out more about the IMA Gallery and its specifications here.
The Sunset Theatre
The Sunset Theatre is a great place for writing, recording and performing. The Sunset provides extremely reasonable rental rates for your creative projects. Find out more about them here.
The Wells Community Hall Ballet Studio
The Community Hall ballet studio across the street from the “Nest” is ideal for dancers and movement-based artists. It is located up a flight of stairs.
Sarras
SARRAS stands for sound and recording retreat and sanctuary. Learn more about the space here.
Contact us about your studio needs and we will try our best to accommodate. Wells is filled with a wide variety of unique spaces and venues.
Rooms available for weekly or monthly rental - call 250 994 3466 or email residence@imarts.com for more details.
Both shared washroom/shower facility rooms and separate units available.
Shared Kitchen Concept
Laundry facilities on site
Garage facilities
Spring - Summer - Fall: Close to Hiking trails
Winter: Close to Nordic ski trails
Thanks to funding from the BC Arts Council and the Quesnel Community Foundation, and work from Grizz Contracting, all bedrooms are outfit with visual smoke and carbon monoxide directors, increasing the overall safety of the building for folks who are d/Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing.
Upstairs
Upstairs - Room #1
Has a queen bed, single bed, large closet and dresser.
Upstairs - Room #3
Has a double bed, desk, and large closet.
Upstairs - Room #2
Has a double bed, desk, and large closet.
Upstairs - Room #4
This room is currently out of commission.
The Upstairs Kitchen has everything you need which includes: Fridge, stove/oven, kettle, coffee maker, toaster, blender, pots/pans, plates, bowls, cups and utensils. The Shared Washroom has a shower and bathtub. The Living Room contains a dining table, a couch and a futon. These rooms have plenty of natural light from the large windows. All are provided with bedding and towels, have access to phone and internet and the laundry facilities.
Main Floor
Main Floor Room # 1 w/ ensuite: This room provides the guest(s) with a double bed, futon, desk, and private mobility-accessible washroom. All bedding and towels are provided.
Main Floor Room #3 w/ Semi-Private Washroom: This room provides the guest(s) with a single bed, futon, and shelving space. The bathroom is not attached to the room and may be shared with other house guests. All bedding and towels are provided.
Main Floor Room #2 w/ ensuite: This room provides the guest(s) with a double bed, futon, and private mobility-accessible washroom. All bedding and towels are provided.
Main Floor Common Spaces (Kitchen, Living Room): The Main Floor Common Area offers a comfortable seating area, kitchen table and chairs. You also have access to phone and internet. The Kitchen has a fridge, stove/oven, microwave, kettle, coffee maker, toaster, pots/pans, plates, bowls, cups and utensils.
Basement
Laundry Facilities
Equipped with a washer and a dryer, the Laundry Room is located in the basement, which is accessed and shared with all tenants. Laundry soap is provided.