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Written by Carolyn Marie Souaid | #NoOneSucceedsAlone

In 2013, the Banff Centre became my home for seven weeks while I wrote the first draft of my cross-cultural love story, Yasmeen Haddad Loves Joanasi Maqaittik. Not only did it provide a cheery setting, gourmet meals, and a private studio in the woods (an old, refurbished fishing boat), the Centre rescued me from my regular routine and allowed me to connect with dancers, painters, musicians and other writers from around the world. These rich interactions inspired me to be bold in my work, to experiment, to remove my editor’s hat, things I never had the down time for because my paid freelance jobs always got in the way. They zapped my creativity. One of the first things they give you when you arrive at the Centre is a picture ID card that says ARTIST on it. I remember looking at it for the first time and thinking: Finally, a place that believes that being an artist is serious business. It gave me the boost I needed to get my book written. I am still grateful to the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Quebec and The Centre for their joint support.

Me in the Henriquez Studio (2.5 metres wide x 10 metres long) at the Banff Centre. The interior includes a small galley for food, a sleeping area and washroom.
Me in the Henriquez Studio (2.5 metres wide x 10 metres long) at the Banff Centre. The interior includes a small galley for food, a sleeping area and washroom.

 

See Carolyn Marie Souaid at the 2018 Whistler Writers Festival