Six artists selected from record applications for Artist in Residence program
Six talented artists have emerged from a record field of applicants to secure a spot in the City of Stirling’s biennial Artist in Residence program.
The successful applicants will take up residence in five studios in community facilities in Scarborough, Tuart Hill and Watermans Bay from 20 July to 27 September.
The 2026 artists are:
- May Kee Cheah | The Atelier at Stirling Leisure – Scarborough Community Centre, Scarborough
- Claire Davenhall and Amanda Kendle | The Nook at Stirling Leisure – Scarborough Community Centre, Scarborough
- Sheree Dohnt | Courtyard Studio at Osborne Community Hub, Tuart Hill
- Rebecca Ryan | The Archive at Mount Flora Regional Museum, Watermans Bay
- Jenni Vacca | Vista Studio at Mount Flora Regional Museum, Watermans Bay.
The number of applications for the 2026 program was 60 per cent higher than any of the previous three iterations.
“The record interest in this program is a result of our strong and steady support of the arts,” City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin AM said
“Artists add colour and creativity to our community and we’re lucky to have so many talented artists wanting to undertake a residency in the City of Stirling.
“The Artist in Residence program is an opportunity for the community to engage with artists as they work and get involved in the creative process.”
The six selected artists are interested in a range of artistic practices, including painting, ceramics, oral storytelling, photography, multidisciplinary arts practice and paper sculpture.
Collectively, the cohort intends to explore themes of memory, place and lived experiences through material-based work, storytelling and site-responsive projects.
The Artist in Residence program supports artists in the development of their practice through the provision of studio space, an artist's stipend, a materials allowance and opportunities for professional development.
As part of their residency, the artists will hold workshops and an open studio day, followed by a public exhibition of the works created during their residencies.
To learn more about the artists and their upcoming residencies, visit our website.
