A CREATIVE arts hub in Newcastle (Muloobimba) is offering a First Nations Artist in Residence program, with applications now open for Hunter-based artists.
On offer is a 12-month, rent-free studio residency at The Creator Incubator (TCI) in Hamilton North.
TCI is a lively creative hub housing over 40 practicing artists and was founded in 2017 by artist and Director Dr Braddon Snape.
“It is an exciting opportunity for an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artist to immerse themselves in their practice and be part of a vibrant, supportive creative community,” Dr Snape said.
“Since the very beginnings of TCI it has been a long-held goal of mine to engage with and welcome First Nations artists into the TCI community.
“Now, thanks to our patrons and with this residency opportunity, we are clearly able to communicate that desire for sincere cultural and community building with the First Nations community.”
The successful artist will also receive mentorship from experienced creatives in the field and their own solo exhibition during NAIDOC Week 2026 in The Big Space gallery.
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artists working in any medium – painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, or mixed media – are encouraged to apply.
Wiradjuri and Wongaibon woman Renae Lamb, the winner of the inaugural TCI First Nations Artist in Residence program, said, “The Creator Incubator Residency has been an incredible opportunity.
“It gave me space, support, and community to grow as a First Nations resident artist and I would recommend it to any artist ready to push their practice further with care and intention.”
Renae will present her culminating solo exhibition “YANGGU: Songlines as We Walk Upon Country” during NAIDOC Week 2025 at The Creator Incubator, from 6-13 July.
All shortlisted applicants for the 2025/ 26 residency will be invited to participate in a group exhibition alongside Renae.
Accommodation is not provided as part of the residency.
Artists from outside the Hunter region are welcome to apply but will need to organise their own accommodation.
Applications close at 11pm on Sunday 15 June.
The recipient will be announced at 6:30pm on Saturday 5 July.
For application details and eligibility criteria, visit: https://www.thecreatorincubator.com/first-nations-artist-residency-2025-2026
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