Organizer Information
East Quay is a contemporary arts venue in Watchet, West Somerset, opened in September 2021. Managed by Onion Collective CIC, a female-led, not-for-profit social enterprise, East Quay includes two galleries, nine artist studios, a project space, a paper mill, a print studio, a geology workshop, a bookshop, an education space, a restaurant, and five accommodation pods overlooking the quayside.
The galleries are run by Contains Art CIO (Charity No: 1193931), which promotes access to culture and creativity regardless of background. Contains Art holds NPO status from Arts Council England and aims to foster discussion, social and environmental awareness, and community engagement through high-quality contemporary art.
Title & Description
Somerset Artist Residency 2026 – Studio 10, East Quay
East Quay invites applications for a 5-week residency at Studio 10 Project Space, running from Friday 4 September to Sunday 11 October 2026. The residency offers Somerset-based artists the opportunity to develop new work, explore ideas, and engage directly with local communities during Somerset Arts Week (19 September – 4 October 2026).
The residency encourages artists to consider three core programming themes: Peripherality, Transition & Alternative Futures, and Joy & Wonder. Studio 10 supports experimentation, collaboration, and presenting work to audiences while fostering emerging and underrepresented artists.
The selected artist will receive a dedicated workspace, a production budget, and accommodation in East Quay’s onsite pods, with a focus on presence and interaction with the public.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Contemporary Art
- Community Arts
- Experimental/Interdisciplinary Practice
Eligibility
- Somerset-based artists, defined by residency, studio, schooling, or growing up in Somerset (covering Sedgemoor, West Somerset, Taunton Deane, South Somerset, and Mendip)
- All mediums accepted
- Artists must be available to work on-site during the 5-week residency, engaging with visitors and audiences
- Emerging, mid-career, or established artists welcome
Program Benefits & Awards
- Residency duration: 5 weeks in Studio 10 Project Space
- Production budget and honorarium: £1,200 (inclusive of VAT) covering materials, equipment, and artist stipend
- Access to accommodation pods on-site
- Opportunity to work within a vibrant arts venue and connect with local communities, artists, and creative networks
- Exposure during Somerset Arts Week
- Mentorship and support from East Quay and Contains Art teams
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Completed Google Form application
- Project proposal outlining the use of Studio 10, engagement plans, and relation to programming themes
- Personal statement demonstrating previous work or potential
- Optional supporting materials (images, documentation, or CV)
- Completion of the Equal Opportunities monitoring form
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 5 April 2026
- Decision Notification: Week commencing Monday 13 April 2026
- Residency Period: Friday 4 September – Sunday 11 October 2026
- Somerset Arts Week: Saturday 19 September – Sunday 4 October 2026
Location
Studio 10, East Quay, Watchet, West Somerset, United Kingdom
Additional Details
- Residency focuses on making, exploration, and audience engagement, not just exhibition
- Studio 10 is accessible via lift and inclusive to artists of all abilities
- Equal opportunities employer, committed to diversity, inclusion, and supporting artists facing barriers
- Artists must be present regularly in the studio and during Somerset Arts Week to engage with visitors