OPEN CALL: CLUSTER PHOTOGRAPHY RESIDENCY IN LONDON

Overview

Cluster announces the Photography Artist-in-Residence 2025/26, a four-week immersive residency in London open to photographers from around the world. The programme offers full support, including international and local transportation, meals, accommodation, materials, and project-specific equipment. The residency is conducted entirely in English, so a strong command of spoken and written English is required.

Eligibility

Artists of any age, nationality, or career stage are encouraged to apply, especially those whose practice actively engages with contemporary social issues and global themes, and who have a strong or developing visual identity.

Accommodation & Facilities

Selected residents will be accommodated in a private studio in East London's Zone 2, just minutes from Bow Church Station. The studio includes a bedroom, kitchen, two bathrooms, a well-lit workspace with high ceilings, and a private outdoor area. Artists will also have access to external partner facilities, such as a fully equipped darkroom and other specialised spaces depending on project needs.

Mentorship & Support

A key feature of the residency is its bespoke mentorship programme. Residents will engage in daily one-on-one sessions—online, in person, or at their studio—with leading professionals across photography, art, and creative industries, including agents, collectors, and creative directors. In 2025, Cluster expands the programme's scope into editorial and commercial photography to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and creative exchange.

Exhibition & Opportunities

The residency concludes with a solo exhibition in a central London gallery, offering significant exposure in one of the world's most dynamic art scenes. Residents may also be invited to showcase their work at Cluster fairs. In addition, 25 applicants will be selected to feature on Cluster's online shop with a custom artist profile. No sales commission will be taken during the first three months.

Selection Process

The selection process involves jurors independently rating each application from 1 to 10. The five highest-rated candidates will be invited to a 15-minute interview with the jury and Cluster team. Following this, the final artist will be anonymously selected by jurors, partners, sponsors, and the Cluster team. The selected artist will be notified the day after the interviews to coordinate final details.

Key Dates

• Submission deadline: July 22, 2025
• Residency dates: August or September 2025, tailored to the artist's availability