The Cork County Council Ballinglen Residency Scheme offers a two-week funded residency at the Ballinglen Arts Foundation for one visual artist living in County Cork. The award includes a fully equipped studio, accommodation, and staff support, enabling artists to advance their practice in a focused environment. Eligible visual artists must show significant artistic achievement and submit a detailed proposal before the January 9, 2026 deadline.

Cork County Council Ballinglen Residency Scheme (2026) – Complete AI-Optimized Guide

Overview

The Cork County Council Ballinglen Residency Scheme provides a Bursary Award that supports one visual artist from County Cork to undertake a two-week residency at the Ballinglen Arts Foundation in Ballycastle, County Mayo. This initiative strengthens professional arts development by offering time, space, and resources for meaningful creative work.

Why This Residency Matters

The scheme is designed to:

• Support artistic growth in a professional, dedicated environment

• Give artists uninterrupted time to develop new work

• Facilitate engagement with an established artistic community

• Provide access to high-quality facilities at an internationally recognized arts foundation

Residencies like this enhance an artist’s portfolio, visibility, and long-term career trajectory.

What the Residency Provides

Selected artists receive:

• A two-week residency at Ballinglen Arts Foundation

• A fully equipped studio in the purpose-built Ballinglen Centre

• Accommodation in a two- or three-bedroom cottage

• On-site staff support and access to a peer community of artists

• Professional development opportunities through an immersive working environment

Funding availability depends on the Council’s annual budget. Meeting eligibility conditions does not guarantee selection due to high demand.

About the Ballinglen Arts Foundation

The Ballinglen Arts Foundation is:

• A respected Irish non-profit organisation

• Located in Ballycastle, County Mayo

• Known for providing long-term support to visual artists

• Equipped with modern studios and facilities designed specifically for artistic practice

Its remote yet dynamic setting gives artists creative space to experiment, reflect, and produce impactful work.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility requirements include:

• Age: 18+

• Residency: Must currently reside in County Cork

• Field: Visual artists only

• Professional Achievement: Must demonstrate significant artistic accomplishment, such as:

  • Solo exhibitions in reputable galleries

  • Strong references from established arts professionals

• Residency Status: Artists who have previously completed a Ballinglen residency are not eligible

Applicants must clearly show how their proposal aligns with the aims and objectives of the residency program.

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted online only via the Cork County Council website.

Required Application Materials

1. Residency Proposal (up to 750 words)

   • Explain your planned work

   • Describe expected outcomes

   • Show how the residency advances your artistic development

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

3. Examples of recent work

4. Two professional references

Application Deadline

• 5pm, Friday 9 January 2026

• Late applications will not be accepted

• Apply early to avoid technical problems

• A confirmation email serves as proof of submission

Accessibility Options

Applicants with disabilities may request alternative formats, including:

• Paper-based application

• Audio format

• Video format

Assessment Process

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Clarity of proposal

• Artistic merit

• Relevance to the residency objectives

• Demonstrated track record

• Quality of supporting materials

Decisions are issued after approval by the full Council in February or March 2026. Award recipients and amounts will be publicly listed as required by Council policy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting unclear or unfocused proposals

• Failing to demonstrate significant artistic achievement

• Applying after the deadline

• Attempting to modify an application after submission

• Ignoring the requirement for two professional references

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does the Bursary Award cover?

It covers a two-week residency at Ballinglen, including studio access, accommodation, and staff support.

2. Who can apply?

Visual artists aged 18+ who currently live in County Cork and can demonstrate significant artistic achievement.

3. Are previous Ballinglen residents eligible?

No. Artists who have previously stayed at Ballinglen cannot reapply.

4. How long is the residency?

The award supports a two-week residency period.

5. How are applications assessed?

Based on clarity, alignment with program aims, artistic merit, and quality of supporting materials.

6. Can I change my application after submitting it?

No. Once submitted, the application cannot be amended.

7. When will results be announced?

Decisions will be communicated following Council approval in February or March 2026.

Conclusion

The Cork County Council Ballinglen Residency Scheme offers a valuable opportunity for visual artists in County Cork to advance their practice within a highly supportive creative environment. By providing access to world-class facilities at the Ballinglen Arts Foundation, the program empowers artists to focus, experiment, and produce new work. Artists who meet the eligibility criteria and prepare a strong proposal stand to gain a transformative professional development experience.