Lewisham Arthouse Graduate Studio Award 2027: Free London Studio, Apply by 16 November
Lewisham Arthouse in south-east London has opened applications for its Graduate Studio Award 2027. Designed for artists emerging from formal or alternative art education, the programme provides free studio space for nine months, structured mentoring and support towards a final public presentation. Applications close on 16 November 2026.
What the selected artist receives
The award includes a rent-free studio within an artist-led cooperative, peer learning, mentoring and access to the Arthouse community. The 2027 opportunity listings specify a £500 stipend, £1,000 allocated to mentoring, and a £1,000 production budget for an end-of-residency event. The opportunity is described as beginning in March 2027. Applicants should check the current application pack for the final budget, dates and conditions.
Eligibility and relevance for visual or digital artists
This scheme is for recent graduates from art schools, universities, colleges or alternative art education. Current listings identify eligible graduation years as 2023–2026. The Arthouse describes the studio as being offered to a London-based graduate: because the programme requires practical engagement with a physical studio and local artistic community, applicants based elsewhere should verify location criteria rather than assuming it can be completed remotely.
The award is open to an artistic practice rather than a named technology category. Creators working with digital imagery, moving image, experimental media or other contemporary visual approaches may wish to assess whether their portfolio and proposed project fit the application criteria. No particular digital medium is guaranteed to be accepted by this summary.
Why the organiser is established
Lewisham Arthouse is an artist-led cooperative. Its Graduate Award was launched in 2010, and the organisation reports having welcomed 17 graduates so far. It also reports Arts Council England support awarded in 2023 to expand mentoring and project funding. Selected artists are encouraged to connect with the cooperative and share outcomes through a public event, which might be an exhibition, performance, workshop or discussion.
How to apply
The organiser's Graduate Award page hosts the current application form and contact details. Prepare examples of work, a clear account of your practice and a proposal explaining how you would use the studio and engage with the community, following the exact form instructions. An organiser information session is listed for 23 October 2026.
Avoid relying on older 2025 award packs for application dates. The live 2027 page gives 16 November 2026 as the current closing date.