What's Happening?
The Australian Tapestry Workshop (ATW) has opened applications for its 2027 Hancock Fellowship, a four-week funded residency designed for established or mid-career international textile artists and designers. This program, supported by the Tapestry Foundation
of Australia and David Wallage, aims to foster knowledge exchange and professional development within the textile arts community. The fellowship includes international return flights to Melbourne, four weeks of accommodation, dedicated studio space, access to weaving equipment and specialist tools, and up to $100 of new ATW yarn. Additionally, recipients will receive up to 10 hours of specialist studio support, access to ATW's online tapestry-weaving course, and a ten-week solo exhibition at the ATW Main Gallery with a $1,000 artist fee. The program also covers freight, curatorial, installation, marketing, and opening-event support, along with opportunities for a paid livestreamed artist lecture and a public creative workshop. The application deadline is October 12, 2026, with outcome notifications in mid-November 2026. The residency is scheduled from August 16 to September 11, 2027, followed by the exhibition from August 23 to October 29, 2027.
Why It's Important?
This fellowship is significant for the global textile art community, offering a unique platform for international artists to engage with a renowned institution and expand their practice. By providing comprehensive support, including travel, accommodation, studio access, and exhibition opportunities, the ATW removes significant barriers that often hinder artistic development and international collaboration. The program's emphasis on showcasing existing work rather than requiring new creations specifically for the ATW allows artists to present their established artistic voice to an Australian audience, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation for diverse textile art forms. The inclusion of specialist support and access to ATW's resources, such as looms and dye-lab facilities, can lead to innovative artistic exploration and the refinement of techniques. Furthermore, the public lecture and workshop components contribute to broader arts education and engagement, enriching the cultural landscape and inspiring emerging artists and the public alike.
What's Next?
Following the application deadline on October 12, 2026, applicants will be notified of the outcome in mid-November 2026. The selected artist will then prepare for their four-week residency at the Australian Tapestry Workshop in Melbourne, scheduled from August 16 to September 11, 2027. During this period, the artist will have the opportunity to research, experiment, or develop work, utilizing ATW's facilities and engaging with its staff. The culmination of the fellowship will be a ten-week solo exhibition at the ATW Main Gallery, running from August 23 to October 29, 2027, where the artist's existing practice will be presented to an Australian contemporary arts audience. The artist will also deliver a paid livestreamed lecture and a public creative workshop, further engaging with the community and sharing their expertise.
Beyond the Headlines
The ATW Hancock Fellowship extends beyond a mere residency by fostering a deeper appreciation for textile art as a contemporary and evolving medium. By inviting international artists, the program promotes a global exchange of ideas and techniques, challenging traditional perceptions of tapestry and fiber art. This initiative highlights the importance of institutional support in nurturing artistic talent and facilitating cross-cultural artistic dialogues. The emphasis on accessibility, welcoming applications from diverse backgrounds including First Peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse artists, and people with disabilities, underscores a commitment to inclusivity within the arts. This approach not only enriches the artistic community but also reflects a broader societal value of celebrating diverse perspectives and contributions. The fellowship's structure, which allows for the presentation of existing work, acknowledges the continuous journey of an artist and provides a platform for established voices to gain international recognition and influence.
