At Barnsley Civic, we understand the challenges artists face in accessing the support they need to develop their work. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing opportunities for artists of all genres who live in or work with the Barnsley community.
Our aim is to create pathways for young and emerging artists, offering them the space to cultivate their personal practice and enhance their sector knowledge. As part of our ongoing transformation at Barnsley Civic, we are excited to reinvigorate our approach to working with artists, implementing clear and distinct support systems to better serve the vibrant artistic community in Barnsley.
We work with artists in lots of different ways including:
- Creative Socials
- Artist Surgeries
- Artist Residencies
- Civic Family (Associate Artists)
CREATIVE SOCIALS
Barnsley’s only monthly networking event for artists and creatives.
This is a fantastic opportunity for local artists to connect, share their work, and expand their creative networks – no matter what stage of their creative journey they’re on.
Come together to exchange ideas, resources, and contacts, vent frustrations, share tips, and offer support.
It’s also FREE to attend. The social is open to ages 16+, but ID will be needed for alcohol purchases.
Throughout the evening, we’ll provide details about our other artist support programmes. So, mark your calendars and bring your friends along! If evenings aren’t always possible for you, don’t worry—we’ll alternate with lunchtime events too.
Join us on the first Thursday of every month throughout 2025, 6-8pm
Thanks to Barnsley Council and Arts Council England for their continued support.
Artist surgeries
Got a project you want to develop? Need some advice on a funding application?
Residencies
Each year, we offer up to 2,000 hours of free rehearsal space in our Studio Theatre. Artists or companies developing new work can apply for up to two week’s residency to use this space. We are also able to offer accommodation for up to four artist to stay in Barnsley for Free!
Who Can Apply?
We encourage applications from artists who live or work in the greater Yorkshire region and demonstrate a desire to:
- Engage with Communities: Create realistic and meaningful connections with communities in Barnsley and South Yorkshire.
- Promote Inclusivity: Develop work that is accessible and actively reaches out to underrepresented communities.
- Create Innovative Work: Produce high-quality, groundbreaking projects.
If you’re keen to engage with local communities but need support in finding access, please reach out to us—we’re here to help.
How to Apply
To apply for a residency, please fill out and submit the form below. Applications are reviewed monthly and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you plan to include your residency at Barnsley Civic in a funding application for your project, contact Joel, our Head of Programme. We’re always interested in learning about you, your developing projects, and how we can support your work.
What to Expect During Your Residency
- Access to Space: You’ll have access to our Studio Theatre from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
- Team Introduction: Every Tuesday at 9:30 AM, our team will meet with you to introduce themselves and learn about your project. Team members will also be available throughout the week for deeper discussions or feedback.
- Facilities: Enjoy the use of the Artists Kitchen and a limited number of desks, along with comfy seating in our Panorama for informal meetings.
Studio Theatre Information
- Dimensions: The studio measures 7m wide by 12m deep.
- Height: Approximately 2.4m from the floor to the hanging fixtures.
- Lighting: The studio has plenty of natural light but can be blacked out with black surge curtains.
- Power Supply: Multiple 13a power sockets are located around the studio.
What We Ask From You
We’d love to stay connected during your residency, so please keep us informed about your progress. We may ask you to share content through our social media channels or tag us in any creations.
After your residency, please share how it helped you develop your work by completing a feedback survey.
Please note that once your residency offer is accepted, any cancellations or changes may require you to reapply. If changes arise, let us know as soon as possible so we can offer the space to others.
IN FRAME: Barnsley Young Photographers Award 2025
Barnsley Civic are proud to announce the third annual Barnsley Young Photographers Award, in partnership with Photoworks.
Photoworks champions photography for everyone; commissioning new photography, producing exhibitions and publishing books. They are an international platform, global in reach, and have provided opportunities for artists and audiences since 1995.
Categories & Themes
This year we have three age categories:
- Age 11 – 15
- Age 16 – 21
- Age 21 – 30 (graduates and emerging professionals)
In celebration of the recipients of the fifth edition of the Jerwood/Photoworks Awards, Roman Manfredi and Sayuri Ichida and its tour to Barnsley Civic in Spring 2026, the themes for this year’s Barnsley Young Photographers Award are:
- My Heritage
- My Identity
All submissions should respond to at least one of these themes.
The Barnsley Young Photographers Award is committed to the development of artists aged up to 30 years old, living in, studying in or working in Barnsley.
Prizes
Prizes also include;
- An hour-long on-line mentoring session with Photoworks experts (Age 21 – 30 Graduates and Emerging Professionals)
- Photography book bundle from Barnsley Civic and Photoworks (all awarded artists)
- All awarded artists will have a selection of their work showcased and exhibited at Barnsley Civic in Spring 2026.
- All awarded artists will have a select work exhibited online via the Photoworks.Lab Instagram in Spring 2026.
