About AIR
Our Curation Process
Our Artist in Residency program (AIR) runs in a few different ways — sometimes we invite artists directly, sometimes we partner with other organisations, and sometimes we open Expressions of Interest (EOIs).
EOIs for 2026 closed in July and our program for that year is now set. If you’d like to be part of AIR 2027, make sure you’re on our e-news list (sign up on the homepage) and following us on Instagram and Facebook so you don’t miss the callout.
What We’re Aiming For
Our residencies are guided by our big-picture goals to Inspire, Create & Connect. When an artist comes to Kepa Kurl/Esperance, we hope they’ll bring:
Inspiration, skills, and professional development for artists and community
High-quality workshops across a variety of artforms for our KickArts and ArtLab programs
Creative experiences that foster connection across community divides
Seeds of collaboration and engagement, supporting the development of future projects.
Accommodation
Our on-site studio flat is cosy and fully self-contained, with a queen bed, kitchenette, and private bathroom — everything you need for a comfortable stay. Just outside the door you’ll find the beach, coffee only a short stroll away, and the vibrant daily life of the Cannery: from our community garden to yoga sessions, art workshops and more.
Support
During your residency, we’ll help you connect with the local community and can provide letters of support or grant-writing assistance if needed. There are also opportunities to share your practice through paid workshops as part of our KickArts and ArtLab programs. Where possible, we’ll give you access to additional creative spaces such as the print room, pottery studio and other facilities to support your work.
What We Ask In Return
Residencies usually run for 2 - 4 weeks, though longer stays or repeat visits often work best for building connections.
We don’t have dedicated funding for AIR, but we do provide the accommodation in-kind. In exchange, we ask each artist to offer an artist talk, a walk, a showing, or a-something in kind. We’ll help spread the word and get the community along.
Keen to Apply?
We usually plan AIR alongside our gallery shows, Art Lab workshops and KickArts programs. EOIs are the main way to apply — but if you’ve got a brilliant idea for Kepa Kurl/Esperance that can’t wait for the next round, you can still email us anytime at admin@canneryarts.com.au
Image-SPACED Rurual Utopias artist in residence Ana Tiquia 2023 Photographer- by Sarsby