Bothy Project, in partnership with the Cairngorms National Park Authority, has opened applications for the 2026 Cairngorms 2030 arts residency. The opportunity is aimed at arts practitioners living and working within the Cairngorms National Park and offers dedicated time and support to develop creative work responding to the theme of Dùthchas - the deep-rooted connection between people and nature.

The residency will take place at Glenesk Folk Museum from 24 April to 1 May 2026, providing seven days of research time, accommodation, professional support and a production budget of £500. The successful applicant will receive a fee of £2,032.80 and assistance with travel costs.

Lesley Young, Director at Bothy Project, said: “Bothy Project's work aims to see creativity valued and all aspects of the natural environment understood and respected. Now in its third year, our partnership with the Cairngorms National Park Authority is creating connections between artists, communities and geographies which illuminate the history and signpost the future of the Cairngorms. These connections will grow even stronger in the years to come."

Applications are welcomed from practitioners across visual arts, craft and design, music, literature and performance. Applicants should be over 18, based within the Cairngorms National Park and have three to five years’ experience in their field. During the residency, the practitioner can choose to gather research or begin developing a project, with an expectation to share outcomes, such as through a talk, workshop or similar event, before the end of 2026.

David Clyne, Head of Cairngorms 2030 at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: “Our partnership with Bothy Project through Cairngorms 2030 has been hugely successful so far, offering a unique space for creatives to explore and respond to the themes of the programme. We are excited to see the impact this collaboration continues to have and are very much looking forward to learning about the successful applicant for the 2026 residency session.”

An online Q&A session will take place on Wednesday 19 November, 5–6pm, for those interested in learning more about the location and application process.

Applications must be submitted by midnight on Sunday 14 December 2025 and applicants will be notified of the outcome in the week beginning 12 January 2026.

For full details and to apply, visit this dedicated page on the Bothy Project website.

This residency is part of the community arts and culture project of the Cairngorms 2030 programme, putting the power to tackle the climate and nature crisis in the hands of people who live, visit and work in the UK’s largest national park.

Cairngorms 2030 is made possible through funding by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players.

The National Lottery Heritage Fund

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