Organizer Information
The Scottish Sculpture Workshop (SSW) is a prominent site for contemporary sculpture production located in Lumsden, Aberdeenshire. Since its founding in 1979, SSW has provided a unique environment for artists to explore materials and processes. Supported by Creative Scotland, the organization facilitates artistic research and making through high-quality workshop facilities, technical expertise, and a commitment to collective learning. SSW emphasizes a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that fosters experimentation across various artistic disciplines.
Title & Description
Group Residency 2026
The Group Residency 2026 is a highly subsidized, collective program designed to bring together artists from diverse backgrounds to develop their practices within SSW’s specialized workshops. This residency is experimental and open-ended, prioritizing the process of making and peer exchange over finished outcomes. Participants are encouraged to test new ideas and connect with materials. The program includes a series of technical inductions (ceramics, metal, blacksmithing, stonework) and social activities such as sauna sessions, artist sharings, film nights, and community walks to foster a supportive creative environment.
Categories
Visual Art, Sculpture, Ceramics, Metal Fabrication, Blacksmithing, Stonework, Installation, Performance, Mixed Media, and any other discipline (the residency is open to artists working in any form or medium).
Eligibility
The call is open to international and national artists at any stage of their career. SSW welcomes applicants from all disciplines, including those without formal arts training. The residency aims to form diverse groups in terms of practice, experience, and geography. Applications from underrepresented groups, including but not limited to LGBTQ+ and artists with specific access requirements, are strongly encouraged.
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected artists receive a four-week residency that is subsidized by over £3,000 per person. Benefits include:
- On-site accommodation.
- 24-hour access to studio space and workshop facilities.
- Technical inductions and ongoing support from highly skilled technicians.
- A programmed schedule of social and professional exchange activities.
- Letters of support for additional funding applications.
Application Fee
There is no fee to apply. However, the residency itself costs £480 per artist for the four-week period (subsidized from the full cost of over £3,500). This fee covers accommodation and facility access but does not include materials, travel, or food.
Application Requirements
- Responses to specific application questions (Motivation and Artist Statement).
- Documentation of work (Portfolio/Images/Video links).
- Applications are accepted in multiple formats: written text, voice memos/audio, or video files.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 23 January 2026
- Notification Date: Week commencing 16 February 2026
- Residency Slot 1: 29 June – 24 July 2026
- Residency Slot 2: 3 August – 28 August 2026
- Residency Slot 3: 21 September – 16 October 2026
Location
Lumsden, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Additional Details
SSW is committed to accessibility and offers various resources, including Large Print and Audio versions of the application pack. Artists are encouraged to submit "access riders" or discuss specific requirements (physical, cultural, or communication-related) before applying. While SSW provides technical guidance, artists are responsible for the cost of their specific project materials and kiln firings.