This is an open call for artists who are looking to develop, experience and be supported to progress bold new ideas at the intersection of art and technology exploring the theme of If These Walls Could Talk.

With four residencies available, each comes with a structured programme, work space at the Pervasive Media Studio, a network of peers, plus financial, technical and critical support. This is a rare opportunity for people who make artwork with technology, to have time, resources and freedom to get an idea off the ground.

  • Track 1: Is a focussed track offering two residencies with a development period between Feb and March 2026.
  • Track 2: Is a flexible track offering two residencies with a longer development period between April 2026 and Feb 2027.

When: At least 11 flexible days between Feb to March 2026 (Track 1), or April 2026 to Feb 2027 (Track 2).

Where: The Pervasive Media Studio in Bristol, however, we recognise that how we are able to work together can differ from person to person, so we’ve consciously designed a flexible programme to accommodate in-person and online working.

To be eligible you must meet the following criteria:

  • You reside in the UK
  • You are aged 18 or over
  • You are not an undergraduate student or student in full time education

You have an idea that:

  • Is at an early stage of development
  • Responds to our theme of If These Walls Could Talk
  • Would benefit from being developed at the Pervasive Media Studio
  • Blends art and creative technology  (‘art’ means any artistic discipline; ‘creative technology’ means things like robotics, mobile, sensor-based, interactive screen, tangible and/or immersive technologies)

Please note this programme does not support:

  • Film production, for support in this area please head over to BFI Film Hub or BFI Film Academy
  • Projection, unless it uses mapping or interactivity
  • Image or sound works, unless part of an idea for an immersive, location-based, tangible or interactive project.

We offer :

  • Time in residence at Watershed’s Pervasive Media Studio
  • A bursary of £2,750 (tax inclusive) plus £500 for materials
  • A travel bursary to support temporary relocation to Bristol
  • The opportunity to focus intensively on the development of an idea
  • Tailored support to help you get the most out of your time with us
  • A structured process featuring research blogs, regular catch ups, discussions and sharing events
  • A peer community of potential collaborators for current and future projects
  • We aim to be as inclusive as possible and work to accommodate all access requirements. We will openly discuss and tailor how we do things throughout, to support you as best we can.

Further information: https://www.watershed.co.uk/jobs-opportunities/winter-residencies-2025-2027

We have a two stage selection process – a short Expression of Interest Form (Stage One), followed by a proposal and interview (Stage Two). We will use random selection to pick 20 Expressions of Interest to take forward to Stage Two.

Submit expressions of interest by Wed 1 October, 10:00 BST.