French artistic residency programme opens

The third edition of a UK-France programme that provides opportunities for visual artists from both countries has opened for applications.

Through the Magnetic 3 programme, administered by Arts Council England, five arts organisations in the UK will be paired with organisations in France.  

UK artists will be able to apply for a residency with the French organisation paired with the region where they are based, and vice versa.

Organisations taking part are Wysing Arts Centre in Cambridge, Gasworks in London, Aberystwith Arts Centre, Flax Art Studios in Belfast, and Cove Park in Scotland.

Artists selected for the programme will receive a monthly fee of £2,100 during their two-month residencies, along with accommodation, studio space and mentoring and development opportunities.

Simon Mellor, Deputy Chief Executive at Arts Council England, said: “International exchange is vital for helping our cultural sector to thrive and provides artists and organisations with the chance to develop their skills and expand their networks. 

"It also ensures that audiences in this country get the opportunity to experience the best of global culture.  

"Magnetic has already been successful in strengthening the relationship between the UK and French cultural sectors by supporting several brilliant artists, and we are delighted to build on that foundation by investing in the third year of the programme.”

The application process is open until 15 July.