Organizer Information
The Royal Scottish Academy (RSA) is an independent institution dedicated to promoting and supporting the visual arts in Scotland. Founded to foster excellence in contemporary artistic practice, the RSA administers a wide range of programmes including exhibitions, awards, and residencies. Its Residencies for Scotland initiative, launched in 2009, has supported over 100 artists at more than 40 venues across Scotland, providing funding, research, and development opportunities.
Title & Description
RSA Residencies for Scotland 2026
This programme offers Scottish visual artists a period of research, development, and production, enabling experimentation, skills acquisition, and exchange of ideas. Artists can select from a network of partner venues across Scotland, ranging from specialist studios to production facilities, and may receive funding to support their residency. The initiative aims to strengthen connections with centres of artistic excellence and provide access to technical expertise, mentorship, and potential exhibition opportunities through RSA or partner networks.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Sculpture
- Printmaking
- Photography
- Contemporary Art Practices
Eligibility
- Artists born in or currently living in Scotland (minimum 3 consecutive years; exceptions possible for those intending to remain, including refugees)
- Not in full-time education at the time of application
- Open to artists at all career stages
- Must have the right to work in the UK
- Artists are responsible for managing their own residency budget and planning
Program Benefits & Awards
- Funding up to £5,000 per artist for residency costs (materials, accommodation, venue use, travel, workshops)
- Access to partner venues with technical support and mentoring
- Opportunity for research, production, and skill development
- Potential exhibition opportunities at RSA or partner venues
- Networking with Scottish and international artists, curators, and cultural institutions
Application Fee
None
How to Apply
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 18 January 2026
- Residency Period: Flexible, must be completed before the end of 2027
Location
Scotland
Additional Details
- Artists are responsible for budgeting all residency aspects; funds cannot be used for exhibitions, editioning, or third-party production costs
- Evaluation report required upon completion
- Successful projects must carry RSA and partner venue credit
- Some venues offer additional guidance or costs—applicants must verify before applying
- The programme fosters professional growth, experimentation, and cross-venue collaboration