We are delighted to re-start our artist residency programme - you can apply now for our Spring 2021 Residencies.

This opportunity is open to creative practitioners of any discipline, career stage and background, who reside (or are planning to reside) in Bristol UK, who have ideas for artistic projects that explore technology, environmental emergencies and possible futures.

We have two residencies available that will be flexibly delivered remotely and perhaps in person dependent on the situation at the time. Each residency comes with a structured programme, a network of peers, plus financial, technical and critical support.

The programme will take place in early 2021 (between mid February - end of April) and we’re flexible about how you structure your time. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop an idea, meet incredible people, imagine, share and think.

How to apply

We recognise the creative industries are majority white, cisgender and non-disabled. We believe our work will be stronger with greater diversity and welcome applications from those who bring difference.

We’re open to practitioners who reside (or are planning to reside) in Bristol, UK. We’ve added this criteria to place a focus on restoring our local ecology and discouraging travel in the context of Covid-19.

You can apply as individuals or groups.

The scheme is not aimed at undergraduate students, students in full time education, or those living outside of Bristol.

  • For further information (more about the programme/theme, what we offer, dates and more) please read the Residency Brief (a large print version is also available), linked below.
  • To apply please send either 2-3 sides of A4 OR a video or audio file (max 10 minutes in length) to residencies@watershed.co.uk. We've put the details you need to include in the Residency Brief, linked below.
  • We realise that text or recorded applications don’t suit everyone, so if you would like discuss a different format or way to apply, please get in touch.

Further information

The immediate future and how we will be able to work together is unknown. We’ve consciously designed flexibility into the programme, so residencies could take place remotely or physically (if possible) either at Watershed’s Pervasive Media Studio or at locations outdoors. We don't know if we will be able to use our building, but if we can, measures are in place to ensure any time spent there is safe and productive. Our space is wheelchair accessible, we have a quiet room and we will discuss your needs in relation to working remotely. We will monitor and respond to circumstances relating to Covid-19, and chat with you nearer the time to support you as best we can.

During lockdown the Pervasive Media Studio community moved online and continues to thrive in that space. So whatever the situation, we will invite you to join, contribute to and learn from our resident community of creative practitioners, who work on new and emerging ideas. Ideas span gaming, projections, location-based media, city intervention, connected objects, tangible interfaces and expanded performance. Some are cultural, some are commercial. Run in partnership with UWE Bristol and the University of Bristol, the Studio has great workspace, an open ethos and a can-do attitude.

How we’ll use your details

Watershed will use the information you provide to us to assess and manage your application. We are committed to protecting your personal information and being transparent about what information we hold about you. Please refer to our Privacy Notice for further information.

Closing Date: Monday, 7 December 2020 - 10:00

Studio themes