ILA Artist Residencies
ILA Artist Residencies give artists dedicated time, financial support, access to immersive technologies and technical expertise to research, experiment and develop ambitious new work. The residencies are part of our artist and creative technologist development program.
Applications are open now and close on 12 October 2026.
About the residencies
ILA Artist Residencies support artists to research, experiment, prototype and develop work that engages with digital technologies, expanded media and interdisciplinary creative practice. Artists are encouraged to use the residency as a creative laboratory: to ask questions, collaborate, test ideas and investigate new approaches that blend traditional artforms with technology.
Applicants are not expected to complete a finished artwork. Projects demonstrating significant artistic potential may be considered for further development, commissioning or presentation through ILA’s annual public program and festival partnerships.
What each residency includes
- An artist stipend of up to $5,000 exclusive of GST where applicable
- A residency period across six months, including planning, research, development and residency access.
- Scheduled access to ILA’s immersive studio, spaces and technologies, with up to 20 hours of studio and technology access.
- Guidance from ILA’s team to support creative experimentation and effective use of available technologies.
- Access to hot desk facilities and amenities in the ILA creative business hub.
- Opportunities to connect with ILA’s creative community and broader artist development initiatives.
- An opportunity to share aspects of your practice through a Lab Rats workshop or artist talk.
Key Dates
Applications open 14 September
Applications close 12 October
Successful applicants notified By 30 October
Residency planning Scheduled individually
Residency period Up to 12 months
How to Apply
Complete the official ILA Artist Residencies Application Form and submit the completed form by email to bnilsson@immersivelightandart.com.au before the closing date. Applications must include all required information in the form. Up to three examples of previous work may be supplied as web links, or as files under 5 MB each if web links are not available.
Enquiries
Please email all enquiries to Bianca Nilsson, Programming Coordinator
bnilsson@immersivelightandart.com.au
FAQs
Do I need to have a finished work in mind?
No. The residency is designed for research, experimentation and development. A finished artwork is not expected during the residency.
Can a collective apply?
Yes. Applications are welcome from individual artists and creative collectives.
What kinds of practice are eligible?
The program is open across disciplines where the proposed creative enquiry engages with immersive, digital or interdisciplinary practice.
How do I apply for the ILA Artist Fund?
Download the application form and submit your completed application to bnilsson@immersivelightandart.com.au
If you experience difficulties with the submission process, please contact Bianca at bnilsson@immersivelightandart.com.au
What support is available in the studio?
Residents receive scheduled access to ILA’s immersive studio and technologies, plus guidance from ILA’s team to support creative experimentation and effective use of available technologies.
Could my work be presented at ILA later?
Potentially. Projects demonstrating significant artistic potential may be considered for further development, commissioning or presentation through ILA’s public program or festival partnerships, but this is not guaranteed.
Can I ask whether my idea is suitable before applying?
Yes. Applicants are encouraged to contact ILA with questions about the residency, the application process or the suitability of a project.