The non-profit Canadian Lighthouses of Lake Superior is looking for applicants for the residency programs at its lighthouse on Porphyry Island. Porphyry Island Lighthouse is located on the eastern side of the Black Bay Peninsula in Superior Country, 24.8 miles (40 kilometres) east of Thunder Bay. The closest launching point is at Silver Islet, at the far end of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. There are also charter boat excursions available from the Thunder Bay Marina.
Available residency programs include artist in residence, host keepers and summer students. The artist program has a week-long term and transportation to and from the island is provided. It is open to those working in all media that have created a portfolio of work over several years and enjoy engaging with the outdoors.
The summer student program has a two-month and transportation to and from the island is provided. Participants will be housed in the lighthouse keeper’s dwellings. In exchange for room and board, they will have a list of chores to do and an opportunity to share with visitors the history of the island’s 150-year-old lighthouse.
The host keeper’s program offers a week-long working holiday. Each day, participants complete daily chores, work on specific projects and meet visitors who frequent the island. A bedroom is provided in the keeper’s dwelling and participants are welcome to use the available amenities including sauna, swimming area and hiking trails.
