Perched in the Kootenay Rockies above the historic city of Nelson, British Columbia, Whitewater Ski Resort is launching a first-of-its-kind artist and writer residency program, in a bid to support and nurture the local diversity of artistic talent.
Although world-class skiing is what draws people to visit Whitewater in the winter season, the artistic community and vibrant arts scene in Nelson is what brings them back—or makes them stay longer. Nelson—the “Queen City” of the Kootenays—is home to hundreds of creatives and artisans, demonstrated by the number of independent businesses, theatres and artist collectives. Nelson is also a hub of mountain sports culture.
For its inaugural year, Whitewater Ski Resort has selected two established local artists to become the first members of the residency program, and to help shape the program for future participants. Internationally celebrated writer and journalist Jayme Moye is the first Whitewater Writer-in-Residence, and renowned local artist and backcountry guide Jessa Gilbert is the first Whitewater Artist-in-Residence.
Whitewater will be working together with artists and writers in its residency program over the winter season to showcase their work and discover what possibilities exist when you mix epic mountains with raw creativity.
To find out more about skiing Whitewater and about its support for Nelson’s arts community, visit skiwhitewater.com. To plan your winter vacation in Nelson, go to nelsonkootenaylake.com.
