A vital opportunity for artists and performers to develop and hone new work, Lighthouse has opened applications for its Sanctuary residency.
Launched in 2020 in response to the challenges then faced by local artists, Sanctuary is now an established feature of summer at Lighthouse when its Sherling Studio, Function Rooms and Main Gallery are made available as artistic development spaces in which artists can think, dream, play, stumble, succeed, refine, and create.
To date, more than 100 projects have been supported by Sanctuary.
“Sanctuary is a recognition of how precious space is for artists from all art forms to create and experiment,” says Martha Earley, Lighthouse Community Engagement Manager.
“Sanctuary artists and the work they have developed here have become a vital part of our programme at Lighthouse as many return beyond their residencies and, in recent years, we have widened our reach to encompass both local and national artists, as well as some from overseas.”
Movement artist Ellen Oliver, from Poole, developed her latest performance work, Afters, as part of last year’s Sanctuary following its premiere at Camden Fringe.
“Lighthouse was instrumental in the latest development of Afters,” she explained. “Through the Sanctuary scheme, I had the time, space, and support to rework the piece from solo to trio.
“The residency was a turning point, it gave me the chance to take the core themes of Afters and deepen them both choreographically and conceptually. Having Lighthouse’s support also meant I could test ideas with peers, reflect in real time, and begin imagining the choreographic world that Afters sits in.”
The Sanctuary offer includes designated space with some technical support and opportunities for sharings and creative engagement to help develop work. There is also a limited fund for travel and accommodation if needed.
Sanctuary is open to all artists and companies working in all art forms who need space to work on new or developing work. Lighthouse will prioritise artists it has not worked with previously as well as those from under-represented backgrounds.
To apply, download the application at https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/programme/sanctuary/.
For more information please email nyah.boston-shears@lighthousepoole.co.uk.
Applications close on Monday 23 February at midday, with decisions made by the end of March.
(NC)
Photo credit: Jayne Jackson Photography