How to Apply

NRCG Web Images Ignite Studios Residency 4 

Applications for the 2026 Self-Funded Ignite Artist Residency program open 1 December.

The Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) will soon be accepting applications for its 2026 Self-Funded Artist Residency Program, located at Ignite Studios, in Ballina, NSW. 

Open to creatives from all disciplines, the residency program provides individual artists with subsidised studio space and accommodation for a period of two to eight weeks, for a self-directed residency to expand their practice, undertake research, and/or develop new work. 

Located in the old living quarters of the heritage-listed former Ballina Fire Station, and adjacent to NRCG and the Ballina Gallery Cafe, the residency comprises a light-filled working studio and self-contained bedsit accommodation. 

The residency is located in the heart of Ballina’s CBD, within walking distance of local shops, amenities and the beautiful Richmond River, and a short drive to the unspoiled beaches of Ballina.  Explore the nearby coastline of Evans Head, Lennox Head and Byron Bay, as well as vibrant hinterland villages, hiking trails, waterfalls, and other iconic destinations of the Northern Rivers region.

 

 

KEY DETAILS

Residencies Available: March – December 2026
Duration: 2 – 8 weeks
Cost: $300 p/week (incl GST) - includes studio space and accommodation
Location: Ignite Studios, 60 Crane St, Ballina, NSW
Applications Open: 1 December 2025
Applications Close: 31 January 2026
Applicants Notified: end of February 2026

 

 

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

In the selection of resident artists NRCG will consider art form, career stage and studio experience, in order to encourage diversity, dialogue, exchange and innovation within the program, and the facility. 

Key selection criteria include:

  • Quality of work and originality of ideas.
  • Value of studio time and space to the development of the practitioner.
  • Suitability of the proposed creative activity for the facility.
  • Commitment of time to using the studio.
  • Equity and diversity of applicants and creative practice across the year.

 

HOW TO APPLY

Applications open 1 December.

A brief online application form will request information about your creative practice, background as an artist, what you propose to do during your residency, and what benefit a residency will have to your practice and/or career development, along with your date preferences, and support materials, including a short bio, images of your work and a CV.

 

 

 

If you would like to arrange to view the space, more information, or to discuss your application with our team, contact the Gallery on 02 6681 0530, or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Make sure to sign-up to our E-News and social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram to be kept up to date on all of our programs.

 

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