Virtual Reality Storytelling Fundamentals 2027

Overview

VR Storytelling Fundamentals is an intensive two-week program for artists and creative practitioners interested in storytelling, performance, design, interactive media, and related disciplines. Participants will be introduced to core concepts, tools, and workflows of immersive narrative design in virtual reality through theory and practice, exploring spatial storytelling, writing and directing for 360° environments, spatial audio, and end-to-end VR production using 360° camera technologies. The program culminates in prototype VR experiences and development of a personalized roadmap for future work in immersive media.

What You'll Do

• Explore the creative, technical, and narrative foundations of virtual reality storytelling through seminars and discussions
• Gain hands-on experience through practical labs focused on VR tools, workflows, and immersive content creation
• Experiment with storytelling techniques unique to 360° and immersive environments
• Collaborate with faculty and peers through interdisciplinary exercises and creative projects
• Engage in research and development activities investigating emerging approaches to immersive media
• Develop and present prototype VR experiences in a supportive learning environment

Who Should Apply

• Multidisciplinary artists and creative practitioners with professional experience at any stage of career
• No prior experience in virtual reality required
• Active creative practice and strong interest in exploring new approaches to storytelling through immersive technologies
• Areas include: directing and storytelling, performance and movement, design for live/digital/immersive experiences, sound/music/audio production, video/digital media/content creation, game design and interactive media, producing and project leadership

Eligibility

• 18+ at time of program start date
• Must attend entire program duration; variable participation dates will not be considered
• Open to artists based anywhere in the world
• Domestic and international applications welcome

Key Dates

• Submission deadline: August 26, 2026
• Residency length: 5 days - 6 months

Residency Details

• Average 15 artists in residence at a time
• Collaborative residency: must apply and be accepted individually; may apply as a team
• Private bedroom in shared housing facility on campus
• Partially accessible facilities (50% or more)
• Some meals provided (at least 2 meals)
• Participate in public programming, open studio with fellows, and artist talk or presentation

Fees & Funding

• Total fee before scholarships: $5,730.90
• Scholarship amount applied: $3,889.73
• Total you pay after scholarship: $1,841.18
• Travel and material stipends available

Studios & Equipment

• Full-time technicians and dedicated studios available
• Ceramics: electric wheels, kick wheels, slab roller, clay mixers, plaster room, kilns
• Metal shop: plasma cutter, anvils, stakes, hammers, hydraulic press, soldering workspace, gas/oxy torches
• Photography: darkroom (B&W and color), lighting studio, green screen, large format printer, scanners, photo/video editing suite
• Painting, drawing, printmaking, book arts, textiles, wood shop with full range of tools and equipment
• Partially accessible studios (50% or more)

Application

Apply at http://url.banffcentre.ca/bgrryz. Note: Banff Centre programs do not meet eligibility requirements for Canadian Student Visa; accepted participants must obtain a Visitor Visa. Accepted participants are responsible for identifying and complying with immigration requirements to enter Canada as a visitor from their country of origin.