Creative Journeys Residency Open Call

About the Open Call

Commissions for two creatives to take part in a self-led creative rail residency, between Buxton and Stockport railway stations. Inspired by their journey, the creatives will design four creative activities suitable for printing. These activities will celebrate the unique characteristics of the area along their chosen route. Examples of creative activities could include a drawing prompt, word search, and spot the difference – any creative activity that we can print. No Jobs in the Arts will transform activities into a Creative Journeys Leaflet. Leaflets will be available online and in print, at stations and venues along the line. The aim of the Creative Journeys Leaflets is to invite members of the public to share in the creative’s experience and find inspiration as they travel by rail in Spring 2026. This opportunity is open to disabled and/or neurodivergent early-career creatives currently living, working, or studying in the Midlands. This open call follows the social model of disability. You do not need a diagnosis, blue badge, or receive disability benefits to apply.

What is Offered

Creatives will receive support from No Jobs in the Arts throughout the project. Creatives will receive an all inclusive fee of £750 (~3 days), and free rail passes for their journey. The residency can fit around your time commitments. The full fee of £750 will be paid on completion of the commission, when all four activities have been sent to No Jobs in the Arts.

Requirements

Applicants do not need prior experience in public art projects or residencies. This opportunity is open to disabled and/or neurodivergent early-career creatives currently living, working, or studying in the Midlands. Artists should arrange their own insurance to cover any possible accident, loss or damage during the project. Creatives will need to complete their rail journey and design their four activities by Friday 19th December.

How to Apply

Submit a brief description of your creative practice (no more than 50 words), a short proposal for your rail residency (no more than 100 words), and basic contact information with one relevant link (e.g. to a website, portfolio or Instagram) using the provided form. Alternative formats for submission are accepted by contacting nojobsinthearts@hotmail.com.