FAQs for Mind the Gap Residency, 2023.

If you can’t find something, or have further queries please email: communications@acme.org.uk.

1) How do I demonstrate my professional artistic practice?

We ask for evidence that fine art practice has been your principle activity whilst not being attached to an educational institution as a student. This can be evidenced by an artist CV, exhibition history or other ongoing engagement and artistic activity.

However we also understand that there are reasons why artists might need to take time out from their practice because of caring responsibilities or health reasons.

If you are unsure whether your situation meets this requirement, please contact us to discuss your eligibility.

2) What do you mean by Finnish or Finland-based?

You are either a Finnish national or resident in Finland.

3) What do you mean by “additional barriers” in pursuing my artistic practice?

Acme is committed to widening diversity and access to professional arts practice. As part of this commitment, we recognise there are geographical, economic and social barriers that create opportunity inequalities for artists.

This residency will prioritise applicants whose life experience incorporates one or more barriers. For example, artists living in rural communities, artists in acute financial need, or artists from groups currently underrepresented in the arts.

4) Can I apply if I did not attend art school?

Yes. You are eligible to apply without having received any formal art education after school.

5) How will Acme accommodate my access needs?

This is in conversation with individual artists. Acme have put aside a discretionary access grant to assist with personal access needs for D/deaf/disabled/neurodiverse artists.

At interview, we will invite artists to discuss their specific needs to ensure we can support them effectively. https://www.accessdocsforartists.com/what-is-an-access-doc

6) Can I apply if I currently have an Acme studio?

Current Acme studio tenant holders are not eligible to apply for this residency. This residency is intended to provide studio space for artists who do not currently have access to this resource. Artists who may have precarious or intermittent studio access may also apply.

7) What does participating in the conference involve?

As part of the residency, the artist would attend all four days of the Mind the Gap: Designing residencies for everyone conference.

There are a number of possible options for direct conference involvement, including: performances, discussions, case studies, open studios, workshops and presentations. These are optional and to be arranged in discussion with the artist.

8) Can you tell me more about the location of the residency?

The successful applicant will receive a 3-month stay in a work/live studio at Acme's Fire Station building (30 Gillender Street, Poplar E14 6RH), within a community of artists in the building.

These open-plan units come with bedding and kitchen appliances, with support from Acme's Residencies and Awards team.