reVIVAL: Self Directed Residency
self directed residencY
Vanilla Ink’s independently-funded Residencies provide opportunities for those with their own budgets to take part in our annual Programme. We welcome those able to self-fund and also those who can meet the costs of the Residency through the direct support of academic institutions, public funders or foundations.
REVIVAL: Self-Directed Residency is for silversmiths & jewellery makers wishing to spend time working on the development of their practice – whether this is for production, research or experimentation. The flexible Programme throughout 2024, with each Residency lasting at least two weeks.
Residents stay in our private Silversmith’s Quarters, a self-catering accommodation located further up the street in Banff, Aberdeenshire. All residents have access to their own INKspiration studio pod (you’ll love this!) and external work spaces. We offer social media promotional assistance and opportunities for retail exposure within our workshop. In addition, there may be opportunities to teach additional classes and workshops to generate income during your stay.
The Programme
We welcome experienced makers who will happily work alongside other Residents, Team Smiddy staff and class participants. REVIVAL: Self-Directed Residency is focussed on self-directed practice where Residents are given the freedom to work within our courtyard workspace, and are offered timetabled support from our VI professionals, if required.
During the first few days you will undertake workshop inductions and have dedicated time with staff to develop a making schedule (should this be necessary) to ensure all work can be completed in the residency period. Please feel free to contact us prior to arrival, especially if you have a specific production project in mind. Working hours are flexible and can be arranged between yourself and Smiddy staff.
Accommodation
We have three small townhouses available nearby (within walking distance) and are happy to discuss how Vanilla Ink can support artists with families to access this residency. Please note: Unfortunately our Townhouses are not suitable for wheelchair access. However, The Smiddy is accessible and alternative accommodation can most definitely be arranged.
If you have any specific access requirements you would like to discuss please contact us prior to making an application.
Dates
Weekly Residency Dates: Available throughout the duration of 2024. Minimum of a fortnight per residency.
Please state your preferred dates in your application.
Criteria
We welcome applications from silversmiths and jewellery makers. This category is aimed at experienced applicants who welcome the opportunity to develop work within the relaxed environment at The Smiddy. Each applicant must have experience as a maker (able to work within their chosen discipline safely and independently) to be considered for this Programme.
Applications should outline a clear reason for attending The Smiddy, demonstrating an understanding and response to the location, critical programme and/or facilities. We are open to international and collaborative applications.
Cost
Residencies are part subsidised by Vanilla Ink CIC, which means the costs are a manageable £500 per person per fortnight (around £36 per night).
Residency costs include self-catering accommodation, INKspiration studio pod, courtyard working area with access to The Smiddy studio (outwith class times). Materials, consumables, process-related cost, travel, and food are not included.
How to Apply
Application deadline: Ongoing
You are asked to submit:
A cover letter outlining your areas of interest and reasons for applying to the programme, demonstrating an understanding and response to the location, critical programme and/or facilities. (500 words max.)
Artist statement summarising your practice. (250 words max.)
A digital portfolio (6 work samples, e.g. images, text samples or links to online content)
If you have any questions or wish to discuss your application prior to the deadline please contact us!