What type of artists are eligible?
Only artists based in Australia at the time off application are eligible. Artists who are at any stage of professional practice and from any art form can apply.
Can I apply with other people as a collaboration?
Yes. The online application form provides instructions for how to apply. Note that no additional fee or expenses will be provided for collaborative residencies and that all artists must be based in Australia at the time of application.
How long will each residency go for?
Residencies will run for up to 2.5 weeks.
Can I split my residency time?
It is preferred that the residency is completed all at once.
When will the residency take place?
The residency will run for a 2.5 week period in 2023, with dates to be agreed upon by the artist and The Unconformity.
Where will I stay?
Artists will stay in fully-furnished and private residential accommodation in Queenstown that is close to the town centre and within walking distance to shops, services and The Unconformity hall.
Am I expected to deliver an artistic outcome?
The primary focus for the Artist in Residence Program is to provide developmental opportunities for artists. Therefore, there is no expectation for artists to deliver a resolved outcome.
Can I bring my family?
Children, partners and family members are welcome to stay with artists, subject to accommodation availability, however pets will have to stay at home. Depending on the number of additional guests, extra costs may apply.
Will I be provided with a studio?
Artists are encouraged to use The Unconformity’s headquarters, an old church in the centre of town that features an office, kitchen, fast internet connection and a large heated hall with a wooden floor that is suitable for movement.
What if I don’t drive?
There are public transport options to get to Queenstown for artists who do not drive. If this is not suitable, The Unconformity may be able to provide logistical support to get artists to and from Queenstown.
Is the residency appropriate for artists with accessibility requirements?
The Unconformity strives for inclusivity and to address all barriers to accessibility. The organisation will work with artists to ensure that all residency arrangements are suitable for them.
What do assessors focus on during assessment?
Applications will be assessed on the quality of the artistic practice, including clear articulation of ideas, themes and conceptual approaches and how the residency will impact the artist, their practice and the community.
I live outside of Australia, can I apply?
No. The 2023 Artist in Residence Program is only available to artists based in Australia at the time of application.
Will my artwork be considered for The Unconformity 2023 festival?
There is no automatic inclusion of residency artists or their artwork within The Unconformity festival. Artists are encouraged to submit proposals for future programs at theunconformity.com.au/artistic-enquiries.
What support will be provided in Queenstown during the residency?
Whilst support will be provided to artists whilst in Queenstown, they will be expected to be independent, self-sufficient and prepared to readily engage with West Coast residents to achieve outcomes.
Do I need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to attend the residency?
Given the nature of the residency and The Unconformity's responsibility to the West Coast community, all residency artists are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including at least one booster shot, or have a medical exemption from vaccination. Evidence of vaccination or exemption will be required before travelling to Queenstown.
Do I need a high-quality recording set-up to submit a video response?
Video responses will be assessed the same as written responses. The assessors will not consider the quality of the video, only the content. A video shot on a phone or similar is suitable, you do not need a professional filming set-up as long as the recording is audible.
