Organizer Information
Gasworks is a London-based non-profit contemporary visual arts organization that has built a strong international reputation for supporting emerging artists through residencies, exhibitions, and professional development programs. Founded in 1994, Gasworks operates at the intersection of local and global art scenes, hosting artists from around the world and fostering cross-cultural dialogue. Its residency programme is particularly recognized for enabling experimentation, research, and network-building within a dynamic urban context. This specific residency is supported by Artworkers Retirement Society, which contributes to funding opportunities that sustain artistic careers.
Title & Description
Gasworks Residency Open Call 2026 (Fully Funded, London)
The Gasworks Residency Open Call 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for an early-career visual artist based in Southern Africa to undertake an eleven-week, fully funded residency in London. Running from 30 September to 15 December 2026, the programme is designed to support artistic research, experimentation, and professional development within an international context.
This residency is self-directed and process-based, meaning there is no requirement to produce a final exhibition outcome. Instead, artists are encouraged to focus on developing new ideas, engaging with London’s cultural landscape, and expanding their professional networks. Participants will work alongside a diverse community of international and UK-based artists, benefiting from critical dialogue and curatorial support.
Gasworks emphasizes cultural exchange and artistic freedom, making this programme ideal for artists interested in exploring new directions in their practice while gaining exposure to one of the world’s leading contemporary art cities.
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Contemporary Art
- Interdisciplinary Practices
- Multimedia
- Installation
- Photography
- Sculpture
- Painting
- Drawing
Eligibility
- Open to early-career contemporary visual artists
- Applicants must be based in Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, or Zimbabwe
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a working level of spoken English
- Open to individual artists only (no duos or collectives)
Program Benefits & Awards
- Private studio access (24/7) at Gasworks
- Accommodation in a shared residential house in London
- Round-trip economy flights and local transfers
- Full visa support and coverage of visa costs
- Weekly stipend of £175 for living expenses
- Materials budget of up to £800
- Unlimited public transport (Zones 1–2) via prepaid travel card
- Studio visits with curators, artists, and arts professionals
- Participation in an Open Studio event (5 December 2026)
- Professional documentation, including a video interview
- Networking opportunities within the UK art scene
- Ongoing administrative, pastoral, and curatorial support
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Cover sheet with contact details and links
- Artist statement (250 words)
- Residency proposal (250 words)
- Portfolio (up to 15 images or media samples)
- CV/Resume (max 3 pages)
- Optional supporting materials (articles, publications, etc.)
Note: Audio or video responses are accepted for written statements if preferred.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 18 May 2026
- Interviews (Shortlisted Artists): Week of 1 June 2026
- Final Notification: Week of 15 June 2026
- Residency Period: 30 September – 15 December 2026
- Open Studio Event: 5 December 2026
Location
London, United Kingdom
Additional Details
Gasworks places strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity, welcoming applications from artists of diverse backgrounds. The residency space is fully accessible, and accommodations can be adapted to meet specific needs.
Due to logistical constraints, the residency is limited to individual participants, and accommodation is not provided for partners or families. However, artists may independently arrange for family visits if desired.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to research Gasworks’ previous residency participants and programme structure before applying, ensuring alignment with the organization’s ethos and expectations.
Given the competitive nature of this opportunity and the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Unsuccessful applicants are welcome to reapply in future cycles.