A creative call to the west

Published on 18 September 2025

Artists in residence - OC (1).png

Creatives across Melbourne’s west are invited to apply for Council’s Artist Residency Programs, with applications officially open for 2026.

The program provides artists with the space, time, and resources to develop their practice while building meaningful connections with local communities. Through residencies at the Artsbox (beside Footscray Library), Bluestone Church Arts Space, Maribyrnong Community Centre and Maidstone Community Centre, participants will have the opportunity to create new works, experiment, and engage directly with audiences.

Deputy Mayor, Cr Bernadette Thomas said the initiative reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting creativity and cultural vibrancy in the west.

“We’re proud to open applications for the 2026 Artist Residency Programs, which gives artists the chance not only to explore their own ideas but also to share them with our community. Whether it’s through performance, visual art, or collaborative projects, this program celebrates the diversity and creative energy of Maribyrnong,” said Cr Thomas.

The four residency streams cater to a range of artistic practices:

  • Artsbox Artist Residency Program: Visual artists can apply for a six-week residency in the converted shipping container artist studio beside Footscray Library, offering a stipend toward artist fees and/or material costs and opportunities for engagement with the library’s community or collection.
  • Bluestone Church Arts Space Residency Program: Performing artists and musicians can apply for up to three weeks in Council’s dedicated performance venue in Footscray, with either creative development and supported season options including stipends, technical support and box office returns.
  • Maribyrnong Community-Engaged Residency: A three-month residency for an experienced community artist at Maribyrnong Community Centre, with up to $10,000 in fees and materials to deliver a project created in collaboration with the community.
  • Maidstone Writer in Residence Program: This pilot initiative offers one local writer a four-week residency at the Maidstone Community Centre, with a stipend, access to a private office, and the shared spaces and resources of the Centre.

Applications are now open and close Wednesday 15 October 2025.

These programs coincide with the launch of New Horizons: Creative Maribyrnong 2030 fostering a vibrant cultural life in our City and direct support for our local creative sector.

For more information and to apply, visit our Artists in Residence page.

 

Pictured: Meet Me at the Centre (detail) by Emma Ismawi, Maribyrnong Community Centre, 9 Randall St Maribyrnong, StreetWORKS, 2024. Image by Nicole Reed Photography

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