Short Description
Throwing Shapes, in partnership with Staycity, offers three 3-month Professional Residencies for established ceramic artists and potters. This professional residency provides full studio access and free accommodation during the chosen 3-month program.
This one-of-a-kind initiative provides free studio space and accommodation in Dublin City, aiming to support artists in developing their careers while contributing to Ireland’s leading ceramics community. Our goal is to attract both Irish and international ceramic graduates and residency applicants, encouraging community engagement and establishing Dublin as a hub for ceramics. Staycity’s involvement is crucial in removing financial barriers for artists seeking to work and live in Dublin City.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all of the following:
- Established arts or ceramics practitioner with a proven track record
- 3+ years of independent work outside of an institution, 3+ collections or bodies of work, or alternative equivalents
- Possess advanced ceramics and/or pottery skills
- Be legally entitled to live and work in Ireland for the duration of residency. If a visa is required, this is the applicant’s responsibility
- Commit to full participation in studio activities, mentorship, community events and potential teaching opportunities
- Applications are welcome from professional artists/ceramists based in Ireland or internationally
Important Dates
Autumn Residency 2025
- Applications Open: 1st August 8:00 GMT
- Application Deadline: 30 August 2025 at 16:00 GMT
- Programme Start: 15 October 2025
- Programme Ends: 15 January 2025
Spring Residency 2026
- Applications Open: 15 October 2025 8:00 GMT
- Application Deadline: 15 November 2025 at 16:00 GMT
- Programme Start: 1 February 2026
- Programme Ends: 30 April 2026
Summer Residency 2026
- Applications Open: 1 February 2026 8:00 GMT
- Applications Deadline: 28 February 2026 at 16:00 GMT
- Programme Start: 1 June 2026
- Programme End: 31 August 2026
Submission Requirements
Completed application form including:
- Residency proposal (as outlined above) – PDF, Max. one page, 100MB max.
- Artist CV – PDF, Max. two page, 100MB max.
- Portfolio (up to five works/collections with captions) – PDF, Max. 5 Pages – 100MB in form, WeTransfer to claycity@throwingshapes.ie if file size is limiting.
- Two Referees (name, role, email)
- Letter of recommendation (optional)
How to Apply
Online Application
Program Benefits & Awards
- 3 months of full access to Throwing Shapes ceramics studio. (does not include clay, materials, or firing costs)
- Access to wheels, kilns, studio glazes, workshop equipment, hand-building space, communal tools, and peer-learning environment
- Fully subsidised city-centre accommodation provided by Staycity. This is a two-bedroom spacious, own-door and well equipped apartment in central-north Dublin. The accommodation will be shared throughout the 3-month period with our graduate resident. While rent is free, utility bills will need to be paid for
- Opportunity to teach workshops
- Solo exhibition at the end of the residency with curatorial & marketing support
- Access to member events, Talking Clay series, seasonal retreats, and seasonal studio markets
- Mentorship sessions with staff and studio leaders, as well as social media mentorship with Staycity media staff
- Permanent feature on the Throwing Shapes website and alumni blog
- Invitations to alumni events, retreats, and future professional opportunities
- Please note that a stipend is not included in the residency; you will be asked to clarify how you plan on covering your living costs while on your residency (through savings, part-time work, or additional secured funding)
- You must commit to donating one piece of your collection of work created during your time in the studio to Throwing Shapes at the end of your residency
Entry Fee
None
Location
Dublin, Ireland