Deadline: 18-May-2026
The Gasworks Residency 2026 offers early-career contemporary visual artists from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe an 11-week fully funded residency in London. Participants receive studio space, accommodation, flights, a stipend, materials budget, and professional networking opportunities to develop new work, engage with the city, and expand their artistic practice.
This programme emphasizes artistic experimentation, professional development, and cultural exchange in a self-directed, process-based environment.
Overview
The Gasworks Residency provides emerging Southern African artists the opportunity to:
- Develop new artwork in a self-led, non-prescriptive residency
- Engage in professional and cultural exchange
- Build networks with curators, artists, and arts organizations
- Access supportive facilities and guidance while maintaining creative independence
Residency Details
- Duration: 11 weeks (30 September – 15 December 2026)
- Location: Gasworks, London
- Residency focus: Artistic research, experimentation, and development
Support Package
Selected artists receive:
- Private studio with 24-hour access
- Accommodation in a shared residency house
- Return flights and visa support
- Weekly stipend: £175
- Materials budget: Up to £800
- Prepaid local travel card
- Participation in studio visits, networking events, and an Open Studio presentation
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be early-career contemporary visual artists
- Be based in Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, or Zimbabwe
- Have working knowledge of English for communication
- Demonstrate the potential to benefit from independent research and artistic experimentation
How to Apply
Application Steps:
- Prepare your digital application through the Gasworks website
- Include required documents:
- Statement of artistic practice
- Residency proposal
- Examples of recent work
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Submit before 18 May 2026
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview
- Final selection conducted by Gasworks panel and external advisors
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed on:
- Artistic merit and originality
- Feasibility and clarity of the residency proposal
- Potential for professional development
- Alignment with self-directed, process-based residency goals
Benefits of the Residency
- Financial and logistical support for creative production
- Access to professional networks and mentorship
- Opportunity to showcase work at an Open Studio event
- Immersive experience in London’s contemporary art scene
FAQs
1. Who can apply?
Early-career contemporary visual artists based in the six specified Southern African countries.
2. What does the residency cover?
Studio, accommodation, flights, visa assistance, weekly stipend, materials budget, local transport, and professional support.
3. How long is the residency?
11 weeks, from 30 September to 15 December 2026.
4. What is required for the application?
Statement of artistic practice, residency proposal, examples of recent work, and CV.
5. Is English proficiency required?
Yes, applicants should have a working knowledge of English.
6. How are applicants selected?
A panel evaluates applications, with shortlisted candidates invited for online interviews.
7. When is the application deadline?
18 May 2026.
Final Takeaway
The Gasworks Residency 2026 is an immersive, fully funded opportunity for Southern African artists to develop new work, expand their professional networks, and engage in cultural exchange. With studio support, financial assistance, and mentorship, it fosters artistic experimentation and growth in a dynamic London-based environment.
For more information, visit Gasworks.