apply · creators
Filmmakers, writers, podcasters, storytellers — bring the work that's trying to come through you.
The village is a real container for makers of long-form, soul-grade work. Filmmakers shooting documentary or narrative. Writers finishing books. Podcasters running guest-led seasons. Photographers building a body of work. Designers and creative directors prototyping new lines of expression.
Some come for two weeks of focused output. Some land for a full retreat cycle and let the rhythm shape the work. The strongest fits create work that shows the field they were in — not just work made next to it.
If your craft is more live performance, sound, or visual art for the room, see the Artist lane. If your craft is healing / therapeutic 1:1 or group, see the Practitioner lane.
What we're looking for
- A real body of work. Published, released, distributed. Not "in development."
- A specific project you'd work on here, with a defined output by the end.
- Field literacy. You understand consent, story rights, and that our guests are real people in real process.
- Quality bar. The work matches the place. We're protective of the field.
What you might create
- Documentary footage / a short film about a retreat arc (with full participant consent)
- Long-form essays, a book chapter, a manuscript draft
- A podcast season recorded on the land
- Photo series — life in the village, portraits of guests / practitioners
- Brand / story work for Zen Village or aligned projects in residence
- A creative-direction prototype or zine in residence
What you receive
- A dwelling with a desk, working internet, and quiet
- Three meals a day, plant-forward, on site
- Access to retreats and gatherings as a participant — observer first, then maker
- Optional collaboration with our team on village-side editorial / story work
- Compensation negotiated per fit — fee, trade for stay, or commissioned work