GTCD announces the release of the first-ever Study on Artist Residencies in Québec (In French only) 

The Disciplinary Circulation Working Group (GTCD) is pleased to announce today the publication of an innovative study, offering the first-ever comprehensive overview of artist residencies in Quebec. Conducted by DAIGLE/SAIRE, the study highlights the diversity of residency practices, their challenges, and their crucial role in artistic creation. A portion of the research was already unveiled in February during RIDEAU 2025.

Link to SUMMARY OF THE STUDY In French

Link to THE STUDY In French

A Rich and Varied Landscape

The study reveals that artist residencies take on a wide range of forms, adapting to the specific needs of hosting organizations and artistic disciplines. While they may differ in objectives and structures, they share a common purpose: to provide a dedicated space and time for creation, experimentation, and artistic innovation. Additionally, they foster mutually beneficial exchanges between artists and host venues.

A Call for Greater Recognition

Despite their fundamental role in the creative process and their significant contribution to cultural outreach, artist residencies lack strategic and financial support. The GTCD urges cultural and institutional stakeholders to recognize the diversity of residencies and to implement flexible initiatives that cater to the needs of both artists and host organizations. This approach aims to ensure their sustainability and visibility within Quebec’s artistic landscape while fostering the development of Quebec-specific residency models in the performing arts sector.

The study also emphasizes the importance of establishing a shared language to better understand residency-related challenges and needs and to facilitate coordinated development in the field.

Indeed, in addition to conducting an extensive survey among hosting organizations, DAIGLE/SAIRE explored the terminology surrounding artist residencies—an unprecedented initiative in Quebec. The study introduces essential typologies, clarifying the various types of residencies, their strategic value, and the key players in the field. In an ecosystem where residencies often develop organically, the establishment of a common vocabulary is a vital step in ensuring the longevity and structure of residency programs.

The responses from 111 organizations that participated in the study—having hosted over 600 residencies in 2023—highlight the following key findings:

• 46% received no funding to support residencies.
• 50% are multidisciplinary presenters.
• 34% supported projects for young audiences.
• 48% of residents were emerging artists.
• 78% of residencies led to a public presentation the following year.
• 30% include "residency" in their mission statement.

On average, organizations spend $8,500 to host a residency.

The GTCD

The Disciplinary Circulation Working Group (GTCD) brings together organizations that offer programs aimed at supporting the development, visibility, and circulation of the performing arts. Its mission is to promote collaboration, resource-sharing, and the exchange of best practices.

The GTCD includes :

• Conseil québécois de la musique (CQM)
• En Piste, the National Circus Arts Alliance
• La danse sur les routes du Québec (La DSR)
• Les Voyagements
• Regroupement du conte au Québec
• La Rencontre Théâtre Ados (La RTA)

The Study on Artist Residencies in Performing Arts in Quebec was made possible thanks to the financial support of the Canada Council for the Arts and the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec.

Information:
Daniel Meyer 
[email protected]
Attaché de presse 
514 233-3056