Artists invited to be part of Berwick's creative 'journey'
Studio bursaries on offer
Artists in north Northumberland or the Scottish Borders have until midnight on Sunday, June 28 to apply for three new artist studio bursaries at Berwick Barracks.
On offer to artists at any stage of their career is dedicated studio space within the historic site plus financial and mentoring support.
Two are standard studio bursaries, giving successful applicants free use of a studio for one month between October and next March, support in developing their practice and two mentoring sessions with James Lowther, head of visual arts at The Maltings.
The third is a specialist bursary, offered in partnership with Berwick Open Studios, to enable an artist without access to a studio or exhibition space to take part in Berwick Open Studios 2026.
It includes free use of a studio from September 1 to October 4, support towards creative development and studio use, and guidance from both James and Berwick Open Studios project manager Abigail Thomas.
The successful applicant will open their studio to the public during the Berwick Open Studios weekends of September 26-27 and October 3-4.
The artist studios form part of a growing creative hub at the Barracks, supporting artists to make new work, engage with audiences and contribute to Berwick’s thriving cultural sector.
The bursaries have been made possible through funding from the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority (formerly North East Combined Authority) and Northumberland County Council through the Create Berwick programme, alongside support from The Maltings (Berwick) Trust.
The Maltings already manages five artist studios on site and supports a growing community of artists working within the Barracks.
James Lowther said: “We’re proud to be able to offer these bursaries as part of the continued development of the artist studios at Berwick Barracks.
“The opportunity to have dedicated time and space can make a huge difference to an artist’s practice, whether they are emerging, mid-career or returning to making work in a new way.”
Abigail Thomas said: “Through the Living Barracks partnership, we’re building a creative community within the Barracks that connects contemporary visual arts with the rich heritage of the site and the wider town.
“These bursaries are about supporting artists from across north Northumberland and the Scottish Borders to be part of that journey.”
Applications are open and you can find details on The Maltings website.
Priority will be given to artists who live and/or work in north Northumberland and the TD10 to TD14 postcode areas of the Scottish Borders.