OCCUPY Residency for First Nations Artists

OCCUPY Residency for First Nations Artists

We are excited to announce a refreshed residency model in partnership with Vacant Assembly and their OCCUPY Residency Program, offering two dedicated opportunities for First Nations artists in 2026. These in-house residencies will take place at Vacant Assembly, West End, from April–July and September–December.

Through this collaboration, Aboriginal Art Co and Blaklash will proudly support First Nations artists to participate in the paid residency and develop work toward a solo exhibition in our new gallery at 1/23 Anthony Street, West End.

The OCCUPY Residency is about taking up space, fostering community connections, and energizing grassroots arts and culture. Over 11 weeks, artists, makers, designers, writers, performers, filmmakers, and multidisciplinary practitioners - from emerging to established - can launch new projects, explore fresh research, and expand their creative practice.

Hosted at Vacant Assembly, participants will have dedicated time, space, mentoring and a suite of resources designed to help push the boundaries of their practice.

Upcoming Residency Timeline

  • Applications Open: 13 March 

  • Applications Close: 27 March 

  • Applicant Chosen:  2 April

  • Residency dates: 23 Apr  – 8 Jul 

  • Exhibition outcome at Aboriginal Art Co : 14 Aug – 30 Oct

Apply online via the Vacant Assembly website HERE!
Questions? hello@aboriginalartco.org

Don’t miss this opportunity to occupy space and contribute to the vibrancy of First Nations arts and culture. 

This first residency is proudly sponsored by Blaklash.