Call for Artists:
An Autumn Residency at One River Zen

Open Call: Zen and Creativity Artist-in-Residence Program
October 2nd - December 5, 2026

One River Zen and the Ottawa Center for the Arts are pleased to announce the return of the Artist-in-Residence Program, presented as a collaborative exploration of the intersection of Zen practice and creativity.

This eight-week program is open to artists, writers, musicians, performers, and other creative individuals at every level of experience. No previous experience with Zen or meditation is required.

The Eight-Week Program 

The core program will include three lectures examining the relationship between contemplative practice and the creative process. Each lecture will be accompanied by a creative assignment, giving participants an opportunity to explore the material through their own artistic discipline. Participants will gather to share their work and reflect upon the creative process in a supportive group setting.

The Residency Track

From the general participants, two individuals will be selected as Artists in Residence. In addition to taking part in the full eight-week program, the Artists in Residence will:

·       Attend a weekend Zen retreat.

·       Meet weekly with the Abbot of One River Zen.

·       Focus on integrating the Three Transformative Touchstones of the Eternal Spring Order into their creative practice: Maintain wonder, Include everything, Transform suffering.

The Culmination 

The program will conclude with a public gathering at which the two Artists in Residence will present the work they developed during the residency. Other participants will also have opportunities to share their creative explorations throughout the eight weeks.

This initiative is intended to build meaningful connections among contemplative practice, artistic expression, and the wider Ottawa community. Consideration will be given to Artist-in-Residence applicants who are interested in deepening their work through contemplative experience, creative experimentation, and community engagement.

Additional information about program registration, residency applications, dates, and submission requirements will be announced soon.