Open Call: Talking Forests (Now Closed)
This summer, we invited applications for the first in a new series of socially and ecologically engaged artist residencies.
Embedding the concept of An Arts Centre as a Garden, we sought artists* looking to develop an ambitious new project in collaboration with our human and more-than-human communities.
*Open to individual artists, as well as duos and collaborative groups of up to four
Taking place over 40 days between October 2025 – March 2026, the residency is rooted in the theme of Talking Forests, exploring intergenerational and interspecies exchange.
We invite proposals that connect with our neighbours, classes, allotments, garden activities and wider programme. We are interested in projects which can become part of the living fabric of Forgan Arts Centre.
The residency offers:
- Accommodation and studio on site in The Gardener’s Cottage
- £15,000 fee (pro-rata £42,400) for minimum 40 days work
- £10,000 project budget
- Separate access budget
- Access to staff, classrooms, garden, tools, and tutor support
- Opportunity to contribute an artwork to The Gardener’s Cottage and/or Garden
We’re seeking artists with:
- A collaborative and socially engaged practice
- Experience working creatively with communities
- Interest in environmental and ecological themes
This residency marks a new chapter in imagining Forgan Arts Centre as a garden – a shared, sentient ecology of people, plants, and ideas. Supported by Creative Scotland’s Multi-Year Fund.
How to apply
For full information and how to apply, please download the Talking Forests Residency Pack (2mb). Deadline: Monday 1 September, 12noon
You can download and listen to an audio reading of the Residency Pack here (13mb, 21 mins).
We have hosted two online Q&As for applicants. Many of the questions and answers have been compiled in this document to support you with your application.
If it is helpful, you can view a map of our site with a partial list of some of the trees and their locations.
If you’re interested in this role but feel there are barriers limiting your ability to do so, please get in touch with Rowan Lear, Curator, curator@forganartscentre.co.uk – by Friday 29 August. Conversations about your application will not impact how it is assessed and will be confidential.
