Residency Open Call for Artists Based in Canada

Gasworks has opened applications for its fully funded artist residency in London, available exclusively to emerging and mid-career contemporary visual artists based in Canada. The program supports artistic research, experimentation, and international cultural exchange, offering studio space, accommodation, travel costs, stipends, and professional development opportunities. Selected artists gain deep engagement with London’s art ecosystem, culminating in an Open Studio event.

Overview

The Gasworks Residency provides emerging and mid-career artists from Canada the chance to advance their practice through a self-directed, process-based residency in London. Supported by B Street Collaborative and the Canadian Art Foundation, the program enables creative research, cultural exchange, and professional growth within a vibrant global art community.

Purpose and Focus Areas

The residency is designed to support:

• Professional development

• Artistic experimentation

• International cultural exchange

• Meaningful engagement with London’s art scene

• Process-driven research and new work development

Gasworks hosts up to twenty international residencies annually, emphasising non-prescriptive, artist-led exploration.

What the Residency Provides

Fully Funded Support Package

• Private, accessible studio with 24-hour access

• Single-room accommodation in the Residency House

• Economy return flights to London

• Visa costs and support

• Airport and local taxi transfers

• Weekly stipend: £175

• Materials budget: up to £800

• Prepaid London travel card for unlimited transport

• Access to basic tools and AV equipment

Professional Development

• Studio visits with Gasworks staff, curators, and artists

• Engagement with educational groups and external advisors

• A dedicated artist page on the Gasworks website

• A video interview recorded during the residency

• Open Studio event on 12 September

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must be:

• Emerging or mid-career contemporary visual artists

• Based in Canada

• Comfortable speaking and discussing work in English

• Able to work independently in a self-led residency

Not Eligible

• Collectives or duos

• Partners or children (unless the artist arranges separate accommodation)

• Artists who have previously had a London-based opportunity similar to this

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted digitally as a single PDF (max 10MB) and include:

1. Cover sheet

2. Artist statement

3. Residency plan

4. Up to 15 images or media links

5. CV

6. Relevant documentation or support material

7. Optional: audio or video responses for selected sections

Applicants are encouraged to review the Gasworks residency archives to understand the residency context.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare your portfolio (15 images or media links).

2. Write your artist statement outlining your practice.

3. Develop a clear residency plan explaining what you aim to research or create in London.

4. Compile all documents into a single PDF under 10MB.

5. Submit via the Gasworks online application form on their website.

6. If shortlisted, attend an online interview.

Selection Process

• Reviewed by a panel including Gasworks representatives and external advisors.

• Focus on artistic quality, originality, and potential for development.

• Four candidates will be shortlisted for interviews.

• Priority for artists who have not previously worked in London.

Timeline

• Deadline: 9 February 2026, 1pm (UK time)

• Interviews: Week of 23 February 2026

• Final notifications: Week of 2 March 2026

Note: Due to high volume, individual feedback will not be provided.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting a PDF larger than 10MB

• Insufficiently detailed residency plans

• Incomplete documentation or missing media links

• Not reviewing previous Gasworks alumni (context matters)

• Poor image quality or unclear labeling

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can artists apply as a duo or collective?

No. The residency supports individual applicants only.

2. Do applicants need perfect English?

No. Moderate spoken English is sufficient, as long as the artist can discuss their work.

3. Can family accompany the artist?

Gasworks cannot host partners or children, but applicants may secure their own separate accommodation for family.

4. Does the residency support all art forms?

It supports contemporary visual artists, with a wide interpretation of mediums.

5. Is prior international experience required?

No. In fact, priority is often given to artists who have not previously worked in London.

6. Are early-career artists eligible?

Yes, if they are considered emerging or mid-career and have a demonstrable practice.

7. Will unsuccessful applicants receive feedback?

No, due to volume. However, artists are welcome to reapply in future cycles.

Conclusion

The Gasworks Residency offers a rare, fully funded opportunity for Canadian contemporary visual artists to immerse themselves in London’s international art environment. With comprehensive financial support, professional development, and access to a dynamic creative network, the residency helps artists expand their practice, build global visibility, and engage deeply with new ideas and communities.