Deadline:
August 26, 2024
Location(s)
Switzerland
Montricher
Overview
The Foundation features an original group of seven residential modules that are available for writers and translators invited for residencies of varying lengths of time. Hanging from the openwork “canopy” that runs above the Foundation, these units are called “cabins” and offer ideal conditions to anyone who is looking to start, continue working on, or put the finishing touches to a writing project.
Details
Although open to all kinds of writing and all languages, the residency program does give priority to writers and translators. The residencies can vary in length and can be for either individuals or pairs of participants in the case of projects involving more than one discipline. Each year some forty authors from around the world, from the fledgling writer to the seasoned old hand, can count on a certain period of time they may dedicate to developing a writing project.
A percentage of the residences is dedicated to nature writing, a form of fiction or creative non-fiction that raises awareness of nature, prepares for a sustainable way of living, and helps to better understand socio-environmental interconnections and the impact of human actions on nature.
General Terms and Conditions
Residences are available for all types of writers engaged in literary creation. While we give priority to writers and translators, we are also open to any other discipline as long as writing is at the heart of the project. Stays in the Jan Michalski Foundation can be granted for individual projects or projects in pairs. For example: writer-translator, writer-other discipline, writer-writer etc.
Location
The Jan Michalski Foundation lies at the foot of the Swiss Jura Mountains in Montricher. The village is approximately 30 minutes from Lausanne and one hour from Geneva. It is possible to reach Montricher from Morges by train.
Six ‘Treehouse’ overlook Lake Geneva and the Alps while the seventh faces the Jura forest. One other ‘Treehouse’ serves as a kitchen and common living area and where writers can cook together, socialize and relax.
Length of stay
Two week-, one-, two-, three- or six-month stays are available. The length of stay should match the scope of the project. The period applied for is a request only, and the Jan Michalski Foundation reserves the right to offer another period depending on availability.
Schedule
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The application forms for 2025 will be available online starting from 24 May 2024 at 9 am and will remain open until 26 August 2024 at 6 pm.
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Announcement of selected candidates: December 2024
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Arrival of the first wave of selected residents: February 2025
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Residences are available for all types of writers engaged in literary creation. While we give priority to writers and translators, we are also open to any other discipline as long as writing is at the heart of the project. Stays in the Jan Michalski Foundation can be granted for individual projects or projects in pairs. For example: writer-translator, writer-other discipline, writer-writer etc.
There are no age or nationality restrictions.
Beginners are accepted
Selection criteria and process
- Applications will be assessed based on three criteria: the quality of the project, the candidate’s professional background and whether or not the duration of the stay matches the scope of the project. Beginners’ applications are assessed based on the quality of the project and the motivation they are able to convey in their application.
- A panel of experts chaired by Mrs. Vera Michalski-Hoffmann will make a decision on all applications.
- Selected candidates will be contacted individually and a period of residence will be suggested. Only selected candidates will be notified.
- Reasons for non-selection will not be provided by the panel.
Dates
Deadline: August 26, 2024
Cost/funding for participants
Residence conditions
- Residents are allocated one of the seven cabins or ‘treehouses’ for as long as they need to complete their writing project. This treehouse allows them to live independently. For projects in pairs, a separate treehouse will be assigned to each of the selected candidates.
- We have one treehouse available for people with reduced mobility. Please specify any reduced mobility needs in the ‘comments’ box in the ‘your stay’ section of the application form.
- Residents’ travel costs to and from their home address will be covered by the Foundation.
- Residents are granted a monthly allowance of CHF 1200.
- The Foundation provides breakfast and lunch for residents and the village has a small grocery shop.
- Electric bikes are available for residents.
- Montricher train station, with regular connections to Morges, is situated two kilometers from the Foundation.
- Residents have free access to the library during the day.
- Residents are free to participate in cultural activities organized by the Foundation.
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
