We welcome artists from around the world, at all stages of their careers, and in as many disciplines as we can accommodate. This allows beautiful connections and unexpected connections and mentorships to form.

The natural beauty of this island’s temperate rainforest is a completely unique ecosystem in which to retreat and find creative inspiration (and hopefully a relaxing vacation).

Four smiling people stand on a rocky stream in a lush, green canyon with ferns and moss-covered rocks, surrounded by dense vegetation.

Life at the residency

Top five artist comments:

“Something is healing about this island.”

“The residency is perfectly placed in town! Walking distance to everything you would need.”

“I can’t believe how big the trees are!”

“Lake Cowichan is such a quiet and friendly town, perfectly positioned to explore the island’s natural beauty.”

“I feel like I am going home changed.”

Self-care services around the residency

Align Yoga: Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, and group fitness. Monthly passes are available. Located in Lake Cowichan

Lake House Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy and Acupuncture. Located in Lake Cowichan.

Third Street Wellness: Massage Therapy, Chinese Medicine, Qi Gong Medical Massage, Acupuncture, Acupressure, Herbal Medicine and Ayurvedic treatments. Located 20 minutes from the residency in Duncan. (Resident favourite massage)

Taoh Wellness: Chiropractic and Holistic Health and Well-being Collective. Located 35 minutes from the residency in Cobble Hill.

Adeline Wholistic Healing: Private and Group Sound Healing, Reiki, and Gentle Touch Thai Massage. Various locations.

Explore the Town

Here are some of our favourite local spots—just steps from the residency—where you can grab a bite, pick up supplies, or simply soak in the charm of Lake Cowichan.

Exterior of Ed's Coffeehouse with a bright orange awning, pink chairs outside, a pink flowering tree in the foreground, and a neon 'OPEN' sign in the window.

Ed’s CoffeeHouse

One minute from the residency—stellar coffee, tasty snacks, and friendly vibes.

A dark building with a sign that reads 'Jake's Casual Dining' is seen under a cloudy sky, surrounded by landscaped bushes and trees, with a parking lot in front.

Jake’s at the Lake

Lakefront dining at its best—amazing food, sunset views, and a laid-back atmosphere.

A parking lot in front of a garden center or flower shop with plants on shelves, under a building with a green exterior and a gabled roof, with trees and cloudy sky in the background.

Country Grocer

Well-stocked, high-quality, and surprisingly impressive for a small-town grocery store.

A red and yellow restaurant named J&V's Burgers & Pizza on a corner of a street with mountains in the background. The building has a sign saying "Diner" and illustrations of people dining in the windows. There is a person walking on the sidewalk.

JV’s Burgers & Pizza

Classic diner feel with burgers, pizza, poutine, and milkshakes served in nostalgic surroundings.

Outdoor scene showing a secondhand store with signs, lawn equipment, and a Canadian flag flying on a tall flagpole. There are trees, cloudy sky, and mountains in the background.

Second Hand Store

Right across the street—quirky, affordable, and full of delightful surprises.

Red building housing Butler Books and Locksmith, with a large window display and a sidewalk sign, parked truck in front, and cloudy sky overhead.

Butler’s Pantry

A small-town gem: part bakery, part bookstore, part locksmith—and 100% unique.

A lakeside park with wooden docks extending into the water, surrounded by lush green trees and mountains in the background.

A graffiti-covered, rusted metal footbridge with open sides, casting shadows on the concrete walkway during daytime with a cloudy sky.

Swimming Spot by the Bridge

A local secret: spray-painted bridge, warm lake waters, and the perfect dock jump.

A forest scene with a small footbridge crossing over a creek, surrounded by lush green trees, ferns, and moss-covered logs.

Signboard for Friendship Park Fisheries Trail surrounded by green bushes and trees.

Friendship Park

A peaceful park behind the grocery store—ideal for painting, strolling, or quiet writing.

A single-story store with a red metal roof and dark gray walls, featuring a yellow sign that reads 'FIELDS CA'. The parking lot in front has a few parked cars, and tall trees are visible behind the building under cloudy skies.

Fields

Your go-to for everything—clothes, supplies, and odds and ends at solid prices.

A street view of a blue building with signage for Mountain Man Ice Cream and The Lake Kids Store. There is a red car parked in front of the building. The building has windows with flower baskets and a barber pole by the door. The sky is partly cloudy.

Mountain Man Ice Cream

Perfect for cooling off with a scoop on a sunny day.

Jerry’s Cannabis Co.

Legal cannabis, locally sold, with helpful and welcoming staff.

Exterior view of a hardware store with a red sign that reads "Home Hardware," a Canadian flag, parked cars, and a few pedestrians crossing the street.

Home Hardware

Just a short walk away—great for any tools, hardware, or last-minute residency needs.

IDA Island Pharmacy

For meds, quick advice, or essentials—it’s reliable and close.

Vancouver Island Regional Library building with modern architecture, gray and wooden exterior, and a blue library sign, surrounded by trees and a paved sidewalk.

Library

Charming and quiet, with books, printing services, and a comfy reading vibe.

Bakery

No name needed—just good donuts, warm waffles, and cozy smells.
The Cow Restaurant

A cozy spot with a varied menu and hearty meals.
Swordfern Eco-Friendly Clothing and Gifts

Beloved by residents—beautiful gifts, local vibes, and the friendliest staff around.
Poblanos

Freshly opened Mexican spot bringing bold flavor and vibrant energy to town.

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