Central Coast Council is inviting early‑career and emerging visual artists to apply for the 2025-26 Third Space Artist Residency Program, with Expressions of Interest (EOI) applications now officially open.
The program supports artists who identify as culturally and linguistically diverse, and First Nations and Torres Strait Islander, offering a dedicated space to explore, develop and share new work while engaging with the broader community.
Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said the Third Space Residency Program reflects Council’s commitment to fostering inclusive, flexible and welcoming creative opportunities that represent the diversity of the Coast.
“The Third Space Residency Program is an important opportunity to support emerging artists whose ideas, stories and perspectives enrich our region’s culture,” Mayor McKinna said.
“Council is proud to support programs that encourage creativity, connection and community engagement. We look forward to seeing the ideas and talent that will come through this year’s residency.”
Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said two residencies will be delivered during the 2026 program period.
“Residency one will run from Monday 4 May to Sunday 23 May and residency two from Monday 8 June to Sunday 28 June,” Ms Smith said.
“Selected artists will receive a paid residency of up to three weeks valued at up to $5,000, access to a dedicated workspace within the program venue, culturally specific curatorial support and program and resourcing support from Council’s Arts and Culture Project Officer.”
Artists will also have opportunities for community engagement, public presentations and creative development, along with inclusion in Council’s marketing and promotional activities.
To submit an EOI, applicants will need to provide a short artist statement, a brief outline of the work they plan to undertake during the residency, a portfolio of up to 10 images or links and any relevant supporting material. Eligibility criteria documents are available for download prior to commencing an application.
Council encourages applications from artists of all abilities, genders, ethnicities, cultural identities and sexual orientations. Artists who require adjustments or support during the application process are invited to contact Council’s Cultural Development team at culturaldevelopment@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au.
EOI open until 20 April 2026.
For more information, or to submit an EOI application, search ‘Third Space EOI‘ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au