Programme Overview

Studio One Toi Tū is now accepting applications for the 2025 Emerging Artists Residency Programme, an outcomes-focused residency supporting early-career emerging contemporary visual artists/collectives to realise their next significant project or create a new body of work.

Recipients will receive six months of dedicated studio space at Studio One Toi Tū from November 2025 to April 2026, including 24-hour access to facilities, kiln and ceramic facilities, and general workshop tools. An end of residency exhibition will take place from 21 May – 3 June.

This residency programme is designed to support emerging artists while building Studio One Toi Tū's reputation as a vital stepping stone in New Zealand's contemporary arts landscape.

Duration: 6 months (November 2025 - April 2026)
Number of Residents: 2 (one per stream)
Location: Studio One Toi Tū, 1 Ponsonby Road.

Attend the Info Evening & Studio Visit: https://thebigidea.nz/events/emerging-artists-residency-2025-info-evening-studio-tour

To Apply: https://aucklandcouncil.smartygrants.com.au/emerging2025 

Programme Identity & Long-term Goals

Vision: To establish Studio One Toi Tū as a recognised stepping stone and pathway for emerging artists in their professional creative journey, building a vibrant community that champions and platforms the artists we support by:

• Supporting artistic excellence and its place in community
• Contributing to a wider sustainable creative ecosystem
• Fostering connection to place and local identity
• Providing pathways to professional development

Residency Streams

Stream 1: Ceramics & Sculpture Residency

Focus on three-dimensional practices including ceramics, sculpture, installation, and mixed media works that utilise Studio One Toi Tū 's specialist facilities.

Stream 2: Visual Arts (General) Residency

Open to all contemporary visual arts practices including painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, video, digital arts, and interdisciplinary approaches.

Eligibility Requirements

Essential Criteria:

• New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
• Early-career emerging contemporary visual artist
• Available for full residency duration
• Clear intention to develop and complete a new body of work or artistic project with an achievable outcome.
• Commitment to end-of-residency exhibition

Selection Criteria

1. Project Feasibility & Quality 

• Well thought-out project that is realistic and achievable within timeframe
• Clear project goals and methodology
• Innovative approach to contemporary visual arts practice

2. Artistic Excellence & Professional Development 

• Quality of past works demonstrating artistic expertise
• Evidence of artistic drive and commitment
• Residency will significantly contribute to artist's professional development

3. Alignment with Studio One Toi Tū Values and Resource Utilisation

• Project matches and serves Studio One Toi Tū identity and values
• Positive contribution to community engagement and sense of locality
• Demonstrates understanding of Studio One Toi Tū facilities and offerings

We strongly welcome applications from those who reside in the Waitematā Local Board area and/or identify as Mana Whenua. This is in line with our commitment to honouring Te Tiriti and supporting local communities.

Residency Package

Space & Access

• 24/7 access to dedicated studio space at Studio One Toi Tū
• Access to kiln and ceramic facilities
• Access to general workshop tools and equipment
• Print presses and painting studio

Financial Support

• $2,000 stipend
• $500 materials and printing budget
• $500 voucher to join Studio One Toi Tū workshops during residency term
• Paid opportunity to teach public workshop/s

Professional Development

• Professional development mentoring & critique sessions with an established artist/arts professional of the residents’ choice
• Workshops to support with creative sustainability
• Networking opportunities within Studio One Toi Tū community

End-of-Residency Exhibition

Venue: Room 10
Dates: 21 May – 3 June 2026

Key Dates & Application Information

EIO submission open: Monday 4 August
Information session & studio visit: Wednesday 20 August 6:30-8pm
EIO submission ends: Monday 15 September
Notification date: All applicants will be notified by mid October of their application outcome.

 
Enquiries: info@studioone.org.nz or diana.hu@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz 
To Apply: https://aucklandcouncil.smartygrants.com.au/emerging2025 

*Image: Stacey Noel in her studio, 2025