Congratulations to the recipients of the 2026 – 2027 Sponsored Residencies at Jampolis Cottage and to the participants in the 2026 Oliver-Craig Black Writers’ Retreat at Jampolis Cottage!




Atlantic Indigenous Writer’s Residency:
shalan joudry

DAWN Residency:
Sig Burwash

Delmore “Buddy” Daye Residency:
Angela Bowden

Robert Pope Foundation Residency:
Margo Wheaton

Writers’ Federation of Nova Scotia Residencies:
Jaime Forsythe & Lindsey Harrington

Oliver-Craig Black Writers’ Retreat:
LeoNia Elms & Lisette Sumbu

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VLA Graphic Novel Diversity Award

The Graphic Novel Diversity Award (GNDA) celebrates diversity captured within the pages of graphic novels.

The committee is pleased to announce Vera Bushwack by Sig Burwash, published by Drawn and Quarterly, as the 2025 Adult Graphic Novel Diversity Award Winner.



Vera Bushwack is the story of Drew who is building a cabin in the woods on their own in the wilderness of Nova Scotia. When Drew fires up their chainsaw they are transported into their alter-ego Vera Bushwack—a fearless renegade in assless chaps. Astride their noble steed, nothing is impossible for Vera to overcome. Through this alter-ego Drew explores past trauma, joy, anger, and grief as they ride toward self-acceptance in a world full of men who would love to tell them what to do. Sig Burwash uses pencil drawings and a limited color palette to share this imaginative tale of resilience.