The Tyrone Guthrie Bursary Award offers four Mayo-based artists a fully funded one-week residency at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre to focus on research, reflection, and creative development. Applicants must demonstrate artistic achievement or strong potential and submit a clear proposal, CV, and support materials. The deadline is 5:00pm on 16 January 2026, with applications assessed on artistic merit, track record, and benefit to practice.

The Tyrone Guthrie Bursary Award is designed to give Mayo-based artists dedicated time and space to focus deeply on their creative work. The award reflects Mayo County Council’s commitment to inclusive arts development and supports artists across all disciplines.

Overview of the Award

The bursary provides a one-week residency at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre in Annaghmakerrig, Co. Monaghan. It includes full board and lodging, giving artists uninterrupted time to reflect, research, and develop their practice.

Purpose of the Residency

The residency allows artists to:

• Step away from their usual environment

• Critically reflect on their artistic process

• Research and explore new creative directions

• Gain inspiration within a supportive, professional setting

What the Award Covers

• One-week residency at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre

• Accommodation and meals fully funded

• Access to a multidisciplinary creative community

• A quiet, professional environment ideal for focused work

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must:

• Live and work in County Mayo

• Work professionally in any artform (visual arts, music, literature, film, theatre, etc.)

• Demonstrate significant artistic achievement or strong potential

Examples of expected experience:

• Writers: published in book form

• Visual artists: solo exhibitions in reputable galleries

• Musicians/composers: commissioned, performed, or recorded work

• Equivalent experience for other disciplines

Mayo County Council strongly encourages:

• First-time applicants

• Artists from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds

Why This Award Matters

The residency provides:

• Dedicated time away from daily responsibilities

• Space for deep creative thought

• A professional environment surrounded by other artists

• An opportunity to strengthen artistic identity and long-term practice

How to Apply

Follow this structured process to submit a strong application.

Step 1: Complete the Online Form

Submit the official application form through the Mayo County Council Consult platform.

Step 2: Prepare a Single PDF

Your PDF must include:

• A CV (max two pages)

• Six samples of previous work

• Any relevant supporting documents (critical reviews, articles, publicity materials, letters of support)

• A clear project proposal explaining what you plan to accomplish during the residency

Step 3: Label All Files Clearly

Improperly titled or disorganized files may weaken your application.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Applications must be received by 5:00pm on 16 January 2026.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Postal Submission

Allowed only if online submission is not possible.

How Applications Are Assessed

An independent expert panel evaluates submissions based on:

• Artistic quality and merit

• Previous achievements or artistic potential

• Clarity and value of the residency proposal

• Expected benefit to the artist’s professional practice

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete materials

• Failing to outline a clear residency plan

• Ignoring formatting requirements

• Providing unrelated or outdated work samples

• Leaving submission to the last minute

FAQ

1. Do I need to be an established artist to apply?

No. Emerging, mid-career, and established artists may apply, but you must show achievement or strong potential.

2. Can I submit more than six work samples?

No. You must submit exactly six.

3. Can I apply if I’m originally from Mayo but living elsewhere?

No. You must currently live and work in County Mayo.

4. Are collaborative proposals allowed?

No. The bursary supports individual artists.

5. What counts as a “strong proposal”?

A clear, focused plan describing what you will work on and how the residency will support your development.

6. Do I need references?

References or letters of support are optional but can strengthen your application.

7. When will I receive confirmation?

Mayo County Council will acknowledge receipt of your application, and selected artists will be notified after assessment.

Conclusion

The Tyrone Guthrie Bursary Award is a highly valuable opportunity for Mayo-based artists seeking time, space, and professional enrichment. With its fully funded residency and emphasis on artistic growth, it offers a supportive environment to elevate your creative practice. Applicants are encouraged to prepare clear, well-structured submissions and apply before the deadline to maximize their chances.