Short Description
In 2027, Art Gene celebrates 25 years of artist-led, environmentally-aware placemaking, research, artist residences, exhibitions, and socially engaged art projects – all involving artists and communities in the revisioning of their social, natural and built environments.
Founded in 2002 by artists Stuart Bastik (1965–2024) and Maddi Nicholson, over the last two and a half decades, Art Gene has made a distinctive impact by hosting local and international residencies, curating exhibitions, and nurturing collaborations. Working with artists, architects, communities and specialists we have explored the evolving relationships between art, industry, and nature, often focusing on local
issues and biodiversity in Barrow-in-Furness.
Eligibility
Art Gene encourages applications from artists interested in socially engaged practice, community building, and sustainability.
We especially welcome applications from artists with global majority backgrounds, and from those with lived experience of migration to apply, currently under represented in Art Gene’s practice.
Submission Requirements
- CV
- Expression of interest, and proposal as to how you would approach the residency and engage with the community, including evidence that you have explored our website and have ideas on how to respond to the existing work/s (up to 2 pages of A4).
- 10 images of your work
- Your access rider, if appropriate (optional)
How to Apply
Send your application request via email to rachael.barker@art-gene.co.uk
Program Benefits & Awards
The total budget for the residency is £10,500, which includes:
- Artist fee: £7,500, 25 days’ fee at £320 per day.
- Travel & accommodation: up to £1,500 will be reimbursed on production of receipts.
- Materials: £1,500.
You will have free use of our company e-bike when based in Barrow.
A list of local self-catering accommodation will be provided a short distance away from Art Gene’s Office (the Nan Tait Centre).
Entry Fee
None
Location
United Kingdom
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 1 October 2025
Website Link: https://www.art-gene.co.uk/25-x-25-art-genes-25th-anniversary-residency-2-spaces-and-structures-at-art-gene/
