The Jan Michalski Residency offers writers and translators a fully funded opportunity to live and work in a peaceful environment at the foot of the Swiss Jura Mountains in Montricher. The program welcomes individual applicants and pairs, providing dedicated time to start, continue, or complete a literary project. Each year, around 40 authors from around the world are selected, from emerging voices to seasoned veterans, with a special focus on literary writers and translators. A portion of the residencies is dedicated to nature writing, including fiction and creative nonfiction that explores sustainability and the human relationship with nature.
The Fondation Jan Michalski, based in Switzerland, is a literary foundation committed to supporting writers and those involved in the written word. It offers a unique residency experience in seven private cabins overlooking Lake Geneva, the Alps, or the Jura forests. Residents benefit from a supportive environment with access to a library, cultural activities, and financial support, all designed to foster creativity and literary excellence. The foundation prioritizes literary creation and cross-disciplinary collaboration, making it a premier destination for writers worldwide.
Jan Michalski Residency Benefits
- Travel costs covered
- Weekly allowance of 400 CHF
- Breakfast and lunch provided
- Private accommodation in a cabin
- Free daytime access to the Foundation’s library
- Access to electric bikes
- Opportunity to participate in cultural activities
Jan Michalski Residency Eligibility Criteria
- Open to all nationalities
- No age limit
- Beginners are welcome to apply
- Literary writers and translators are given priority
- Other disciplines considered if literature is central to the project
- Applications accepted individually or as pairs
- Writing in all languages accepted
- A percentage of residencies are for nature writing
How to Apply for Jan Michalski Residency?
- Submit an online application through the Fondation Jan Michalski website
- Choose residency duration between 2 weeks and 3 months
- Indicate if applying individually or as a collaborative pair
- Provide project details and any required documents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Jan Michalski Residency. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply for this fully funded writers’ residency in Switzerland.
What is the Jan Michalski Residency?
The Jan Michalski Residency is a literary residency program run by the Fondation Jan Michalski in Montricher, Switzerland. It offers writers and translators a fully funded opportunity to live and work in private cabins overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps, providing dedicated time to start, continue, or complete a literary project.
Who can apply for this residency?
The residency is open to writers and translators of all nationalities and ages. Beginners are welcome. Priority is given to literary writers and translators, but applicants from other disciplines may be considered if literature is at the heart of their project. Individual and pair applications are accepted.
Is the Jan Michalski Residency fully funded?
Yes, the program is fully funded. Selected residents receive travel costs, a weekly allowance of 400 CHF, breakfast and lunch, private accommodation, free daytime access to the Foundation’s library, access to electric bikes, and the chance to participate in cultural activities.
What are the benefits of the residency?
Benefits include return airfare or travel costs, a private cabin, a 400 CHF weekly allowance, breakfast and lunch, access to the library and electric bikes, and a peaceful environment conducive to literary work. Some cultural activities are also offered.
How long can I stay during the residency?
Residents can stay for a period ranging from 2 weeks to 3 months. You can request your preferred duration when applying. The foundation will allocate one of seven cabins. For collaborative pairs, a separate cabin is assigned to each person.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply for the 2026 edition of the Jan Michalski Residency is 31 August 2026. Applications must be submitted online through the official foundation website.
How do I apply for the Jan Michalski Residency?
You can apply by completing the online application form on the Fondation Jan Michalski website. The form will ask for details about your literary project, preferred residency dates (2 weeks to 3 months), and whether you are applying alone or in a pair.
Can I apply as a pair or a team?
Yes, the residency accepts applications from pairs of participants, especially for projects that involve more than one discipline. Each selected candidate in a pair receives their own separate cabin. However, families, children, and pets cannot be accommodated.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is absolutely no age limit. The program welcomes emerging writers, beginners, and seasoned authors alike. The main criterion is the strength and literary focus of the proposed project.
What is the nature writing focus of the residency?
A percentage of the residencies are dedicated to nature writing, which includes fiction and creative nonfiction that raises awareness of nature, explores sustainability, and examines socio-environmental interconnections and the impact of human actions on the natural world.
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