At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop bold new ideas at the intersection of art and technology.
- Company: Join a creative community at the Pervasive Media Studio.
- Benefits: Receive a £2,750 bursary, materials funding, and travel support.
- Other info: Flexible programme designed for both in-person and online collaboration.
- Why this job: Explore the theme 'If These Walls Could Talk' and make your mark in the art-tech space.
- Qualifications: Open to all artists using technology, regardless of experience.
This is an open call for artists who are looking to develop, experience and be supported to progress bold new ideas at the intersection of art and technology exploring the theme of If These Walls Could Talk.
With four residencies available, each comes with a structured programme, work space at the Pervasive Media Studio, a network of peers, plus financial, technical and critical support. This is a rare opportunity for people who make artwork with technology, to have time, resources and freedom to get an idea off the ground.
- Track 1: Is a focussed track offering two residencies with a development period between Feb and March 2026.
- Track 2: Is a flexible track offering two residencies with a longer development period between April 2026 and Feb 2027.
At least 11 flexible days between Feb to March 2026 (Track 1), or April 2026 to Feb 2027 (Track 2).
WhereThe Pervasive Media Studio, however, we recognise that how we are able to work together can differ from person to person, so we\'ve consciously designed a flexible programme to accommodate in-person and online working.
ThemeOur theme for our upcoming residencies is If These Walls Could Talk. We\'re looking for work that explores the stories embedded in the spaces we inhabit—the layers of presence that accumulate in our homes and the places we share. We want to ask questions like these: What secrets do our domestic spaces hold, and how do they shape the rhythms of our daily lives? How can we attune ourselves to the traces of all who have passed through and all who might yet come? And how might we create technologies that honour the idea of place itself—devices that listen to the subtle communications between inhabitants and their environments, that amplify the quiet conversations between past and future happening all around us?
These are just some of the questions that we are asking, we hope you will bring your own.
EligibilityThis opportunity is open to people who make artwork with technology of any career stage, discipline or background. Applicants may be well versed in using technology, have experimented, or have some great ideas but need help with technical possibilities. Any approach is fine.
You can apply as individuals or groups (we\'re unable to offer additional fees for group applications).
To be eligible you must meet the following criteria:- You reside in the UK
- You are aged 18 or over
- You are not an undergraduate student or student in full time education
You have an idea that:
- Is at an early stage of development
- Responds to our theme of If These Walls Could Talk
- Would benefit from being developed at the Pervasive Media Studio
- Blends art and creative technology
(\'art\' means any artistic discipline; \'creative technology\' means things like robotics, mobile, sensor-based, interactive screen, tangible and/or immersive technologies)
Please note this programme does not support:
- Film production, for support in this area please head over to BFI Film Hub or BFI Film Academy
- Projection, unless it uses mapping or interactivity
- Image or sound works, unless part of an idea for an immersive, location-based, tangible or interactive project.
- Time in residence at Watershed\'s Pervasive Media Studio
- A bursary of £2,750 (tax inclusive) plus £500 for materials
- A travel bursary to support temporary relocation to Bristol
- The opportunity to focus intensively on the development of an idea
- Tailored support to help you get the most out of your time with us
- A structured process featuring research blogs, regular catch ups, discussions and sharing events
- A peer community of potential collaborators for current and future projects
- We aim to be as inclusive as possible and work to accommodate all access requirements. We will openly discuss and tailor how we do things throughout, to support you as best we can.
- Enthusiasm and ambition to grow and develop your practice.
- An open, curious, experimental approach
- Dedicated research time at the Pervasive Media Studio
- Regular online documentation of progress and ideas
- Participation in critiques, discussions and meetings
- A willingness to contribute to the Pervasive Media Studio community and participate in conversations with peers
- A sharing of ideas towards the end of the residency
- Some reflection and feedback on your time with us
We have a two stage selection process – a short Expression of Interest Form (Stage One), followed by a proposal and interview (Stage Two). We will use random selection to pick 20 Expressions of Interest to take forward to Stage Two.
Watershed first used random selection in 2022. At that time we recorded a talk and published two articles to share thoughts and learning. In 2023 we wrote a more detailed guide. This is not compulsory reading/watching but if you are curious and want to know more, here are links for reference:
- Talk: Random Selection as a Tool for Change
- Article: Making our Residencies Differently
- Article: Reflections on Random Selection (This article includes an \'Unpaid Labour Calculator\')
- Guide: Random Selection: A How-to Guide
Stage One
If you are interested in applying, please complete an Expression of Interest Form and Anonymous Inclusion Survey below.
Expression of Interest Form
Anonymous Inclusion Survey
Stage Two
We will randomly select 20 expressions of interest. If you are selected you will be invited to:
- Attend a 30 minute application surgery.
Online or in person at Pervasive Media Studio (travel bursaries available)
- Submit a written or recorded proposal outlining your idea.
We will provide guidance.
- Attend an online interview.
We will send interview questions in advance.
We will provide a £200 stipend (inc. tax) to those who complete both application stages.
If you have access requirements there will be opportunity to discuss this at the time.
How are we supporting access needs?
Pervasive Media Studio is wheelchair accessible, we have a quiet room and there is ongoing invitation and opportunity to discuss any specific access requirements, throughout your engagement with us.
We have staff team members who are neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, racially minoritised, disabled, and are from a range of different class backgrounds. Please get in touch if you have similar experiences and want to chat to one of us before making an application.
If you would like to learn more about the space and community, visit the Pervasive Media Studio website or come along to one of our Open Studio Fridays.
Overall Timeline
- Wed 1 Oct - Expression of Interest Deadline
- Fri 3 Oct – Applicants notified
- Mon 6 - Mon 20 Oct – Application surgeries for those who are randomly selected
- Wed 5 Nov - Proposal Deadline
- Mon 17- Fri 28 Nov - Interviews
- Tue 2 Dec - Applicants notified
Any Questions?
We realise that forms don\'t suit everyone, so if you would like discuss a different way to apply, or if you have any questions about the residencies or application process, please message us at
Watershed\'s Artist Residencies are made possible with support from Arts Council England. Our Artist Residencies are additionally supported by our partners in Pervasive Media Studio, UWE Bristol and University of Bristol.
Closing Date: Wed 1 October, 10:00 BST
Winter Residencies Programme 2025–2027 in Bristol employer: Watershed
At Watershed's Pervasive Media Studio, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters creativity and innovation at the intersection of art and technology. Our inclusive work culture encourages collaboration and experimentation, providing artists with tailored support, a vibrant peer community, and the freedom to develop bold new ideas. With financial assistance and access to state-of-the-art resources in the heart of Bristol, we offer a unique opportunity for meaningful artistic growth and exploration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Winter Residencies Programme 2025–2027 in Bristol
✨Dive into Digital Education Events
Get yourself to educational fairs, webinars, and workshops focused on digital learning. These are great places to meet industry professionals and learn about internship opportunities that might not be widely advertised. Keep an eye on platforms like Eventbrite or even local university listings!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Start creating content that showcases your knowledge in digital learning. Whether it’s blogging about innovative teaching methods or creating video tutorials, this could really set you apart! Plus, you'll have something to share during interviews that highlights your passion and expertise.
✨Tap into University Networks
If you’re still at university, make sure to leverage your career services. They often have connections with local companies that are looking for interns in digital education. Don’t be shy to ask about leads or job postings – they’re there to help you land that gig!
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
When you find an internship like the one at Watershed, make sure to apply through our website. We often have exclusive openings listed there that you won't find anywhere else, plus it shows your genuine interest in being a part of Watershed's team!
We think you need these skills to ace Winter Residencies Programme 2025–2027 in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Digital Learning:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for digital education shine through! Talk about any projects, experiences, or certifications related to e-learning that you've been involved in. This is your chance to show us how much you love this field and why you want to dive deeper into it during your internship at Watershed.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Tools:Make sure to mention any specific skills or tools that are common in digital learning, like familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) or content creation software. List these in your CV, as they can give us a quick snapshot of how you fit into the role of Winter Residencies Programme 2025–2027 at Watershed.
Share Your Learning Journey:Include a section in your application that highlights how you've approached your own education. This could be through online courses, workshops, or even personal projects related to digital learning. This demonstrates your commitment to the field and shows us that you're not just looking for a job, but a valuable learning experience at Watershed.
Tailor Your Application for the Role:When applying for this internship, it’s super important to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific responsibilities of the Winter Residencies Programme 2025–2027 role. We want to see how your individual strengths match up with what we’re looking for at Watershed. Remember to apply through our website, so we can easily track your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Watershed
✨Showcase Your Learning Passion
We need to emphasise how enthusiastic we are about learning and education. Prepare to share specific examples of how you've engaged with digital learning tools or projects—whether it’s creating a course, using educational software, or even designing a learning resource. This could make a great impression at Watershed!
✨Be Ready for Interactive Demos
Since this is digital learning, you might face interactive or practical assessment formats. Be prepared to demonstrate any projects or digital tools you've worked with, like learning management systems or e-learning platforms. Practising these demos will help us feel more confident when the pressure is on during the interview.
✨Connect Your Goals to Their Mission
It's key to align our personal motivations with the mission of Watershed. Think about why you want to work in digital education specifically, and how that connects to your career aspirations. This shows commitment and a clear sense of direction to the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Insightful Questions
Expect questions that dig deeper into how we’d tackle challenges in digital education, such as adapting content for diverse learners. Formulate our thoughts on current trends in e-learning and how you'd contribute ideas to the team at Watershed. This displays our understanding and engagement with the field!
