Open Call for Artists: Artwork Exchange for a Creative Retreat on St Agnes, Isles of Scilly. Applications Open Now We invite visual artists, makers, and creatives from all disciplines to apply for a unique opportunity: a one-week self-directed creative retreat on the beautiful island of St Agnes in the Isles of Scilly in exchange for a single original framed/display ready artwork.

The Opportunity

Nestled at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, St Agnes offers an extraordinary environment for reflection, research, making,  drawing, walking, and reconnecting with creative practice. Surrounded by rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, wild landscapes, and a close-knit island community, the retreat provides time and space away from everyday demands.

Selected artists will receive:

• One week's self catering accommodation on St Agnes
• A quiet and inspiring environment for creative development
• Time for research, experimentation, rest, and artistic exploration
• Opportunities to engage with the unique landscape and heritage of the Isles of Scilly
   

The Exchange:

In lieu of a residency fee, participating artists are asked to contribute one original framed artwork created either during or prior to the retreat .

The donated artwork will become part of a growing collection documenting the artists who have spent time on St Agnes and supporting the continued development of future creative retreats.

Dependent on media choice an additional separate dedicated studio space can be made available during your stay.

Works may include (but are not limited to): Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Photography, Sculpture, Textile work, Mixed media

Who Can Apply?

We welcome applications from:

• Emerging, mid-career, and established artists
• UK-based and international practitioners
• Artists working across all visual art disciplines
• Individuals seeking dedicated time for creative research and development
   

How to Apply:

Please submit:

• 5 examples of recent work
• Website and/or social media links 
   

Location:

St Agnes is the southernmost inhabited island of the Isles of Scilly, located approximately 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall. Known for its exceptional natural beauty, wildlife, and slower pace of life, it offers a rare setting for focused creative work.

Key Dates:

Application Deadline: 1st Aug 2026

Retreat Periods Available: 1 week that suits the applicant in any of the following months Oct 2026, March 2027, April 2027. (Artists are welcome to bring a technician, friend, partner, child/ren subject to availability)

For enquiries, please contact us through the 'Contact curator' tab.

We look forward to welcoming artists to St Agnes and building a lasting collection that celebrates creativity, place, and exchange.