Organizer Information
Shape Arts is a UK-based disability-led arts organization dedicated to supporting disabled artists and challenging barriers to participation in the cultural sector. Through creative programmes, professional development opportunities, and partnerships with cultural institutions, Shape Arts works to improve access, representation, and inclusion across the arts. Its Emergent programme supports early-career disabled artists through mentoring, professional development, and opportunities to strengthen their artistic practice.
The 2026 edition is delivered in partnership with Tate St Ives, a contemporary art gallery in Cornwall, and the Borlase Smart John Wells Trust, which operates Porthmeor Studios. Together, the partners provide an opportunity for an emerging disabled artist to develop their practice, connect with local creative communities, and engage with young audiences.
Title & Description
Shape Arts Emergent Residency Programme 2026 Open Call for Early-Career Disabled Artists in the UK
The Shape Arts Emergent Residency Programme 2026 is an open call for early-career disabled artists seeking professional development, tailored mentoring, and opportunities to advance their artistic practice. The programme will select one artist for a fully supported, one-week residency in Cornwall in January 2027, alongside a cohort of four shortlisted artists who will receive professional mentoring.
The residency is designed to provide time and space for artistic experimentation, research, and creative development. The selected artist will have access to a studio, opportunities to connect with local arts communities, and the chance to develop a relationship with Tate St Ives' young people's programme. They will also have the opportunity to host a creative event for young people at the gallery.
The programme welcomes artists whose careers are in their first five years, including those who have recently graduated, changed careers, or returned to artistic practice after a break.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Contemporary Art
- Interdisciplinary Art
- Creative Research and Practice
- Emerging Artists
- Artist Residency and Professional Development
Applicants should demonstrate an active or developing artistic practice. The opportunity is intended to support artistic development rather than a single prescribed medium.
Eligibility
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Usually be based in the United Kingdom.
- Self-identify as disabled, including people who experience disabling barriers and may use different terminology to describe their identity.
- Be within the first five years of their artistic career.
- Not be in full-time education.
- Not have been shortlisted in previous editions of the Emergent programme.
Additional residency eligibility: Applicants seeking the main residency must live or work in Cornwall, Devon, or Somerset. The selected artist must be available for the full-time residency from 18–24 January 2027, with additional travel days on either side.
Artists based elsewhere in the UK may apply for the shortlisted cohort but will not be eligible for the Cornwall residency. Proof of address will be required from the selected residency artist, but not at the initial application stage.
Shape Arts will prioritize applicants who have not previously received significant funding, awards, or formal professional opportunities.
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected residency artist:
- £3,000 bursary.
- One-week residency at Porthmeor Studios in Cornwall, facilitated by Tate St Ives and the Borlase Smart John Wells Trust.
- Access to studio space for making work and research.
- Opportunities to engage with local arts communities.
- Opportunity to host a creative event for young people at Tate St Ives.
- Remote mentoring from the Shape Arts team.
Shortlisted cohort of four artists:
- Remote mentoring from Shape Arts.
- Funded mentoring sessions with an artist or practitioner of their choice.
The programme offers tailored professional development, peer engagement, and support for strengthening artistic practice and career progression.
Application Fee
None
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 November 2026
- Residency period: Monday, 18 January–Sunday, 24 January 2027
Location
Cornwall, United Kingdom
Additional Details
The programme provides alternative application formats, including audio, British Sign Language (BSL), and Easy Read information. Applicants who need access support during the application process can contact Shape Arts directly. The residency requires a full-time commitment for the specified week, and applicants should ensure their availability before applying.