At a Glance
- Tasks: Create impactful illustrations and develop your artistic practice in a supportive environment.
- Company: Cluster, a vibrant community fostering emerging talent in East London.
- Benefits: Fully funded residency with mentorship, studio space, accommodation, and exhibition opportunities.
- Other info: Experience a unique opportunity to showcase your work at Vienna Design Week.
- Why this job: Elevate your art career while connecting with industry leaders in a dynamic creative city.
- Qualifications: Open to illustrators at any stage, especially those exploring interdisciplinary practices.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
After successful past editions, the Cluster Artist-in-Residence returns with its mission to support emerging talent through a carefully curated, artist-first model - offering tailored support, mentorship, and meaningful connection to shape the next stage of their careers. This fully funded four-week residency in East London offers tailored mentorship, private studio and accommodation, and full support for production, materials, food, and transport—culminating in a solo exhibition, showcase at Vienna Design Week, and participation in the Cluster fair.
Designed for illustrators looking to refine their practice and connect with leading voices in contemporary visual culture, this fully funded programme takes place in London, one of the world’s most dynamic creative capitals.
The Residency Experience
A fully immersive, supportive, and professionally focused opportunity for illustrators and visual artists, providing the structure needed to develop impactful new work while living and working in one of the world’s most vibrant creative cities. Vienna Design Week is our official Partner for the 2026 Cluster Illustration Artist-in-Residence Programme. As part of this collaboration, our four shortlisted artists and winner from the Illustration Residency Programme will have the opportunity to showcase their work during the festival in a dedicated exhibition space curated by Cluster.
Support is at the heart of the residency:
- Ema Marinova, founder of Cluster, personally oversees each residency, curating a tailored mentorship plan based on the artist’s goals.
- She remains available throughout the programme for logistical and professional support.
- The wider Cluster team is actively involved and ready to assist whenever needed.
- A handpicked group of mentors and industry professionals work directly with the resident, offering valuable feedback, guidance, and connections.
Key Dates
- Residency period - 2026 (with flexibility to adjust the dates based on the selected artist’s availability).
- Final showcase - The solo exhibition will be conducted 3 to 5 months (or else) after the end of the residency.
Artists will stay at Cluster’s House - A Creative Sanctuary in the Heart of East London. This fully furnished, one bedroom duplex apartment offers comfort, inspiration, and full privacy throughout the programme. Located in East London, the studio offers a spacious and inspiring working environment, designed to support both quiet focus and large-scale creation.
What's required
- Application Forms
- Artist Statement
- Cv
- Project Description
Who can apply
Cluster welcomes applications from illustrators based anywhere around the world, at any stage of their career, and of any age or nationality.
Medium/discipline restrictions
This is an illustration-focused residency, and we particularly welcome artists working across interdisciplinary practices. While the programme is centred on illustration, we encourage approaches that integrate other mediums where they meaningfully support the development of the work. Interdisciplinary practice is welcomed, as long as illustration remains central to the project. This residency is intended for emerging to mid-level career artists. Applicants who have already had a solo exhibition in the UK are not eligible to apply, as the programme is designed to support those who are at an earlier stage in their career development.
Cluster Illustration Artist-in-Residence employer: Noted
Forma is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and collaborative work culture, ideal for those passionate about contemporary visual arts. Located in London, the role of Curator offers not only competitive remuneration but also generous holiday allowances and flexible working hours, allowing for a healthy work-life balance. Employees are encouraged to grow creatively and professionally, with opportunities to engage in high-profile projects and contribute to the artistic community, making it a rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cluster Illustration Artist-in-Residence
✨Build a Killer Portfolio
Get your best graphic design work together and showcase it in a slick online portfolio. Make sure it’s not just about completed projects; include sketches and process work too to let potential employers at Noted see your thought process.
✨Get Involved in Design Communities
Join online design communities like Behance or Dribbble where you can connect with other designers and even get feedback on your work. Attend local design meetups or workshops to make connections; you never know when you'll meet someone from Noted!
✨Leverage Your University Resources
Don’t forget about your university’s career services! They often have connections to companies looking for interns in graphic design. Find out if Noted has any partnerships with your school and chat with them for insider tips.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
When you spot an internship at Noted, apply through our website for best visibility. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills and passion for design, and show that you’re on top of the latest design trends.
We think you need these skills to ace Cluster Illustration Artist-in-Residence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Portfolio:As you're applying for a graphic design internship, we can't stress enough how important it is to have a killer portfolio. Make sure you showcase a range of work that highlights your style, creativity, and technical skills. Include any personal projects, school assignments, or freelance work that demonstrate your design prowess.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let your passion for design shine through! Explain why you want to intern at Noted and what you hope to learn. We want to see your personality, so don't be afraid to let your enthusiasm for graphic design and this opportunity speak for itself.
Tailor Your CV to Graphic Design:When creating your CV, focus on the relevant skills and experiences that align with graphic design. Highlight your proficiency in software like Adobe Creative Suite, and list any relevant coursework or projects. Don't forget to mention any awards or recognitions you’ve received—every little bit sings your praises!
Keep It All Visually Appealing:As designers, we know that presentation counts! Make sure all your application materials, from your CV to your portfolio, look polished and professional. Use consistent fonts, colours, and layouts to demonstrate your design sensibility right from the start. Remember, you’re showcasing not just your skills, but also your eye for design to Noted!
How to prepare for a job interview at Noted
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
Bring a well-organised portfolio showcasing your best graphic design work. Include a variety of projects that highlight different skills – think branding, digital design, and any personal projects that you're proud of. Be ready to discuss your design choices and the process behind each piece; it shows your thought process and creativity.
✨Master the Design Tools
Make sure you’re comfortable with industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, or Figma. During the interview, they might throw some technical questions your way or even a design challenge. Showing that you can confidently navigate these tools will set you apart from other interns.
✨Express Your Passion for Design
As an intern, the interviewers are looking for your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. So, be sure to express why graphic design excites you and what inspires your work. Share any relevant experiences, like courses or projects, that showcase your eagerness to grow in the field.
✨Be Ready for a Design Challenge
Don't be surprised if they ask you to complete a quick design task during the interview. It could be as simple as coming up with a logo concept on the spot! Practise some brainstorming techniques beforehand, so you're ready to think on your feet and showcase your creative process under pressure.
