Organizer Information
Photoworks is a UK-based organization dedicated to supporting photographers and artists through professional development, exhibitions, and research initiatives. For this residency, Photoworks partners with the Royal Geographical Society and the Italian Cultural Institute in London. The program focuses on archival research, environmental and humanitarian themes, and fostering cross-cultural dialogue among professional photographers.
Title & Description
Hidden Narratives Residency 2026/2027 – London, UK
This Residency invites Italian photographers and visual artists with a strong interest in archive research to engage deeply with the historic collections of the Royal Geographical Society. Residents will explore themes of hidden narratives, human impact, and environmental change, producing work for exhibitions and presentations. The one-year program (spread over 2026–2027) includes research visits, public talks, and showcases at Summit Photo 2026 and 2027.
Residency Objectives:
- Facilitate archival exploration and research-based artistic production.
- Develop work that reflects hidden narratives, loss, and human-environment interactions.
- Promote public engagement through talks, exhibitions, and presentations.
- Provide professional support, including artist fees, travel, accommodation, and production budgets.
Categories
Photography, Visual Arts, Archival Research, Documentary Photography, Research-based Practices, Interdisciplinary Practices
Eligibility
- Italian nationality only.
- Professional photographers and visual artists with experience in archival research.
- Must be 18+ years old.
- Proficiency in English (spoken and written).
- Availability for scheduled visits and program activities.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Artist fee: £1,500.
- Travel, accommodation, and production costs covered.
- Participation in public events: talks at Summit Photo 2026 and exhibition in 2027.
- Access to the Royal Geographical Society’s archival collections.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- PDF including:
- Expression of interest (max 300 words) detailing research area and archival focus.
- Availability confirmation.
- CV and links to portfolio/website.
- 5–10 examples of recent work.
- Optional: audio/video recording (3 minutes max) in lieu of PDF.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 13 April 2026
- Interviews: 27 April 2026
- Research Visits: May 2026 (first visit)
- Summit Photo 2026 Talks: 17–19 July 2026
- Exhibition Presentation: Summit Photo 2027
- Residency Duration: 2026–2027 (approx. 1 year)
Location
London, United Kingdom
Additional Details
- The program emphasizes research-driven practice, public engagement, and interdisciplinary approaches.
- Participation includes multiple in-person archive visits, talks, and public exhibitions.
- Artists are expected to produce work that resonates with archival narratives, environmental awareness, and human impact.