Royal Docks Originals Engineers: a £35,000 residency opportunity for creative practitioners

Applications are now open for Royal Docks Originals Engineers, a new artist residency programme supporting up to three creative practitioners in developing ambitious new work in East London. Selected artists will receive a £35,000 commission, dedicated producer support and the opportunity to present their work at the Royal Docks Originals Festival in autumn 2027.

Running from December 2026 to October 2027, the programme aims to support artists at a pivotal moment in their careers, helping them take their creative practice in a new direction, explore innovative ideas or develop meaningful partnerships.

Open to practitioners from all artistic disciplines, including performance, visual arts, digital arts, film and fashion, the residency offers time and resources for in-depth artistic research and experimentation. It is particularly aimed at established practitioners who can demonstrate the potential for a significant development in their work, rather than those at the very beginning of their careers.

Art, community and place at the heart of the programme

A key element of the residency is its connection to the Royal Docks and its communities. Artists will be expected to develop their projects in collaboration with local residents, creating opportunities for participation and engagement throughout the creative process.

Each selected practitioner will receive a £35,000 commission covering the costs of the residency, including creative fees, research, production, community engagement and the presentation of the final work. A dedicated Royal Docks producer will also provide ongoing support, helping artists develop partnerships, connect with local networks and bring their projects to life.

The residency will culminate in the presentation of an original creative work at the Royal Docks Originals Festival, taking place in September and October 2027. Projects should respond to the area's unique identity, history, landscape and diverse communities, while contributing to its long-term cultural development.

Who can apply?

Creative practitioners working in any artistic discipline are welcome to apply. While priority will be given to those who live, work or study in the Royal Docks, applications from artists based elsewhere are also encouraged, provided they can demonstrate meaningful connections with the area and explain how their project will benefit its cultural ecosystem in the long term.

Application deadline: 23 November 2026.

Artists interested in applying can consult the full programme guidelines and submit their application through the Royal Docks website.

This is an opportunity to develop ambitious artistic ideas, build lasting relationships with local communities and contribute to the evolving cultural landscape of East London.

Find out more and apply: Royal Docks Originals Engineers – Resident Artists Programme