Artists from W. Yorkshire are invited to apply for a six-week residency (2 x days a week) at Oakwell Hall, as part of a new ‘Friendship Programme’ in partnership with the Brontë Parsonage and ‘Friends of’ organisations. The residency focuses on exploring the theme of "friendship" particularly through the relationships of Charlotte Brontë and her close friends Ellen Nussey, Mary Taylor, and Margaret Wooler, whose bonds influenced their creativity and intellectual exchange.

Artist Residency: Friendship at Oakwell Hall (7 July–12 Aug 25)

Payment: £3,500

Background:

The residency ties into the new display of a Charlotte Brontë portrait and Ellen Nussey’s writing desk at Oakwell Hall, highlighting the historical significance of the Brontë connection to the Kirklees area.

This includes places like The Red House and Oakwell Hall, and other significant sites in the life of Charlotte and her friends.

The project emphasises the role of friendship in human achievement, local history and marks the start of the Brontë Way (walk).

What’s Involved:

The artist will create an installation for the Green Room of Oakwell Hall, complementing a portrait of Charlotte Brontë and Ellen Nussey’s desk.

The installation will link the stories of the Red House, where Mary Taylor lived, and other local sites tied to Ellen Nussey and life of Margaret Wooler.

The artist will also deliver workshops using materials like paper, which relate to the creative and intellectual friendships of the four women.

Why:

The creation of an art installation aims to enhance the visitor experience by raising awareness of Charlotte Brontë's local connections.

It will explore how the friendships forged in the Kirklees area played a key role in their personal and professional lives.

Who:

The residency is for an artist experienced in socially engaged projects and working with community groups.

The artist should have an interest in the theme of friendship and the ability to lead workshops in various creative mediums, ideally (but not limited to) calligraphy, creative writing, illustration, graphic design, and textiles.

Where:

The residency will be based at Oakwell Hall, with research visits to the Brontë Parsonage in Haworth and other local sites.

Outcomes:

·       Creation of an art installation for the Green Room of Oakwell Hall.

·       Delivery of a minimum of three creative workshops (to include 3 August 25 – Yorkshire Day) for intergenerational groups, focusing on friendships.

·       Design of a "Wayfinder" marking the start of the Brontë Way, pointing to The Red House.

The selection process for our Artist-in-Residence program is based on the following key criteria:

Artistic Merit:

We evaluate the quality, creativity, and originality of the applicant's previous work.

Relevance to Theme:

Projects must align with the theme of the residency, particularly focusing on the life, relationships, and creative exchanges of Charlotte Brontë and her close friends.

Professional Experience:

We consider the applicant’s experience in their artistic field, including exhibitions, projects, and overall artistic practice.

Experience with Archives & Collections:

Previous work involving historical archives or collections is highly valued, especially if it informs the applicant's creative process.

Knowledge of Charlotte Brontë:

A demonstrated understanding and interest in Charlotte Brontë's life, her friendships, and her connections to the Kirklees area.

Project Proposal:

The clarity, feasibility, and vision of the proposed project within the residency's resources and timeframe.

Engagement & Community Contribution:

We look for applicants who can engage with the local community, share their process, and contribute to the broader cultural dialogue.

Commitment:

Applicants must demonstrate the ability to commit to the full residency schedule (2 days per week for 6 weeks).

Portfolio:

A strong portfolio showcasing relevant and high-quality work.

Additional:

References:

Shortlisted artists will be asked to provide at least two strong recommendations that speak to the applicant’s professionalism, experience, and artistic integrity. 

Application: Via CuratorSpace 

Timeline:

·       Call-out for applications w/c 28 April 25 deadline 12 May 25

·       Selection and final decision w/c 2 June 25

·       Six-week Artist in-residency 7 July–12 Aug 25