About Metal
Metal works with artists and communities to transform places through creative experimentation and collaboration. We have three sites - in Liverpool, Peterborough and Southend on Sea - and we respond to the needs of artists and communities in each place. Food, conversation and hosting are important to our work and to our artists in residence programme. As well as our artist residencies, you might know Metal New Artists Network; the epic Estuary Festival that took place over 107 miles of coastline; Turner Prize winning Assemble’s Granby Workshop; or Harvest, a large-scale art event by Lucy + Jorge Orta that transformed Peterborough’s Cathedral Square. Much of our work is behind-the-scenes and without a predetermined outcome and we are involved in hundreds of conversations and projects every year, supporting artists with funding applications, helping to establish community events, convening environmental sustainability networks, and so much more.
What are Metal Time and Space residencies for?
The residencies are designed to give artists and creatives time, space, community and support for research and development. They might involve working on a new idea or existing project that is already in development. We don’t prescribe outcomes.
Who are the Time and Space residencies for?
The opportunity is open to artists working in any artform at any stage of their career. Individuals, collaborations or collectives can apply.
We value different perspectives and experiences and welcome diversity in all its forms. We particularly encourage applications from global majority, LGBTQIA+, disabled and/or working class people who are underrepresented at Metal - though each of these groups is represented in Metal’s leadership - and in our sector.
Where will the Time and Space residencies be? What are the spaces like?
Everyone gets a warm welcome when they arrive at Metal. Our historic buildings are deliberately domestic in feel and are usually busy with artists and communities meeting, making work or dropping in. In Peterborough we work from from Chauffeurs Cottage which was the original gatehouse property to the cathedral and in Southend at Chalkwell Hall with stunning views over the Thames Estuary. Both spaces are step-free and accessible. Artists can choose to work from Metal’s sites, in their own home/studio/space supported by Metal staff online or a combination of the two. We have also facilitated residencies in community settings and across our regions if that is of interest to your work.
What does a Time and Space residency include?
The residency is for 1 month (up to 20 days) with:
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Bookable space and access to facilities in our buildings, including hot desks and rehearsal space
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Protected space for research and development without the requirement of set outcomes
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Staff time to support your research, (e.g., mentoring and feedback sessions, building relationships with communities or supporting funding applications. Our teams’ standard office hours are Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm. Access to our staff team may depend on our capacity due to the existing programme being delivered by Metal during your residency dates.)
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Opportunities to get involved with our wider programme during your time in residence (e.g., meeting our regular collaborators, attending our networking events, sharing at our community dinners)