Organizer Information
Gasworks is a London-based contemporary art organisation supporting international artists through residencies, exhibitions, research, and cultural exchange. Its residency programme hosts up to 20 artists each year and provides a self-led environment for artistic research, experimentation, professional development, and networking. This residency is supported by the Shelagh Wakely Bequest, administered by The Elephant Trust.
Title & Description
Shelagh Wakely Residency for Artists Based in Central America 2027
The Shelagh Wakely Residency for Artists Based in Central America is an eleven-week, fully funded residency for an early-career contemporary visual artist based in Central America. Taking place at Gasworks in London from 7 April to 22 June 2027, the programme enables the selected artist to develop new work or research, engage with London’s cultural and artistic context, and build professional networks.
The residency is self-led, non-prescriptive, and process-based. Artists are expected to independently lead their research and artistic production, while Gasworks provides administrative, pastoral, and curatorial support.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Contemporary Art
- Sculpture
- Installation
- Experimental Art
- Interdisciplinary Art
- Research-Based Art
Eligibility
The opportunity is open exclusively to early-career contemporary visual artists based in:
- Belize
- Costa Rica
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Nicaragua
- Panama
Applicants should have at least a moderate level of spoken English and be comfortable discussing their artistic practice in English. Gasworks prioritises artists who have not previously had the opportunity to work in London.
The residency is for individual artists only; artistic duos and collectives are not eligible.
Program Benefits & Awards
- 24/7 access to a fully accessible private studio at Gasworks
- Single-room accommodation in Gasworks’ shared Residency House
- Economy return flights and taxi transfers between the artist’s home country and London
- Visa costs and visa application support
- £175 weekly stipend for living expenses
- Materials budget of up to £800
- Prepaid TfL Zones 1–2 travel card
- Studio visits with artists, curators, arts professionals, and educational groups
- At least two individual professional studio visits
- Open Studio event and presentation on 12 June 2027
- Access to basic tools and AV equipment, subject to availability
- Dedicated residency webpage and a short video interview produced by Gasworks
- Administrative, pastoral, and curatorial support
Application Fee
None
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 6 October 2026
- Shortlisted Interviews: Week beginning 19 October 2026
- Successful Applicant Notified: Week beginning 2 November 2026
- Residency: 7 April–22 June 2027
- Open Studio: 12 June 2027
Location
Gasworks, London, United Kingdom
Additional Details
Applicants should research Gasworks and its previous residency artists before applying. The selection panel will include Gasworks representatives and external advisors with specialist knowledge of contemporary art in Central America and the UK.
Applications may include spoken responses instead of written answers for the two required statements, provided they are submitted as sound or video links within the PDF.
Partners and children cannot be accommodated within the residency housing, although applicants may arrange separate travel and accommodation for family members independently. Artists with access requirements are encouraged to contact Gasworks to discuss possible adaptations.