Organizer Information
Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP is a premier global law firm renowned for its expertise in high-stakes litigation and intellectual property matters, with offices spanning North America, Europe, and Asia. Through its innovative Artists-in-Residence Program, launched to bridge the worlds of law and creativity, the firm transforms underutilized office spaces into vibrant artist studios, fostering a unique symbiosis between legal professionals and artistic expression. Curated by Alexis Hyde in collaboration with firm founder John Quinn, the program has supported dozens of emerging and underrepresented talents since its inception, emphasizing diversity, innovation, and cultural enrichment within corporate environments. By integrating art into its daily operations, Quinn Emanuel not only enhances its workspaces but also champions underrepresented voices, offering artists unparalleled access to professional networks while enriching the firm’s community with fresh perspectives on creativity and resilience.
Title & Description
Artists-in-Residence Program – London Office 2026
This open call seeks an emerging or underrepresented artist to embark on a transformative four-month residency at Quinn Emanuel’s London office, commencing April 2026. The purpose is to nurture bold, original practices by providing a dedicated studio space within a bustling legal environment, where artists can deepen existing work or initiate new projects that resonate with themes of innovation, identity, and societal impact. Participants will immerse themselves in a dynamic corporate setting, drawing inspiration from the interplay of art and professional life, while culminating their tenure with a public exhibition showcasing their creations. This opportunity invites creators to challenge boundaries, amplify underrepresented narratives, and forge unexpected dialogues, all while enjoying the stability of financial and logistical support. By selecting artists with a distinct voice and masterful command of their medium, the program cultivates a legacy of artistic freedom, turning a law office into a canvas for reflection and renewal in the heart of London’s creative ecosystem.
Categories
All artistic disciplines and media (including visual arts, sculpture, writing, music, filmmaking, performance, and interdisciplinary practices; visual artists particularly encouraged, but open to innovative hybrids).
Eligibility
Open internationally to emerging and mid-career artists (early to middle stages preferred) based locally in the London area, with a distinct, innovative voice and demonstrated mastery of their medium. No formal education required; applications must be in English. Underrepresented artists are prioritized, with accommodations for disabilities. International applicants must secure their own visas (no sponsorship provided); in-person commitment mandatory.
Program Benefits & Awards
Residents receive a generous £12,000 total stipend (£3,000 monthly for four months), plus up to £1,000 for art materials, ensuring focused creation without financial strain. Additional perks include 24/7 secure studio access in the London office, professional parking if needed, curatorial collaboration for exhibition planning, and a culminating public showcase at a mutually agreed venue. At residency’s end, at least one work joins the firm’s permanent collection, with sales negotiated collaboratively. This exposure within a global law firm’s network often sparks commissions, collaborations, and portfolio elevation, while the program’s prestige—backed by high-profile curators—amplifies career trajectories for underrepresented talents.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
A compelling 500-word proposal (embedded in email body) outlining your practice, project vision, and residency goals; a current resume or CV (PDF); a single PDF portfolio featuring up to 8 original works (max 10 images total, with captions for title, medium, dimensions, and year); and optional links to videos or media. Total file size capped at 20MB; consolidate into one PDF where possible—no Word docs accepted.
How to Apply?
Submit all materials via email to the dedicated address, ensuring the proposal is in the body and attachments are clearly labeled. Early submission advised due to high volume. For queries, use the same email with the subject “QUESTION.”
Application Link: londonartistfellowship@quinnemanuel.com
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 6 January 2026
- Notification Date: Expected in January 2026
- Residency Period: April 2026 to July 2026 (four months).
Location
London, United Kingdom
Additional Details
Selections are made by a committee appointed by curator Alexis Hyde and John Quinn, evaluating originality, medium mastery, and potential impact; no individual feedback due to volume. Residents must adhere to building safety protocols (e.g., no fire-code violations) and CDC/OSHA guidelines. Late applications disqualified; monitor @qeartistresidency on Instagram for updates. Intellectual property remains with artists, though promotional use is granted. This residency not only provides sanctuary for creation but also embeds artists in a forward-thinking firm, potentially unlocking interdisciplinary opportunities in London’s art-law nexus.
Website Link: https://www.quinnemanuel.com/artists-in-residence/our-participating-offices/london-uk
