Closing date - 9th December
Please feel free to contact us at artist.development@factoryinternational.org if you require any support in completing your application.
The Factory International Fellowship returns in 2025 with a unique opportunity for six artists based in the North to scale up their ambition through gaining insight into how we make work at Aviva Studios and for MIF25. It’s the first time we’ll be preparing for Manchester International Festival while operating a full-time programme in our world-class building. Gain exclusive access to our commissions and internal teams while being part of a historic and cultural milestone in our new home.
Our bespoke programme allows Fellows to explore their practice in our new building with new commissions and international artists making work at scale. As part of the fellowship, artists receive mentoring opportunities, coaching, observational placements, peer-to-peer learning and access to Factory International staff and our creative teams as well as monthly meetings with our Creative Director Low Kee Hong.
What to Expect
Factory International Fellows 2025 have the opportunity to:
Artistic Development
The fellowship is open to independent artists and creative practitioners based in the North of England, who are at a stage in their career where they would benefit from access to new and international artistic processes, environments, and experiences. The intention is to support individuals who are at a pivotal point in their career to develop new knowledge, experience, skills, and networks.
Building on MIF’s distinct identity and strength as a multi-disciplinary commissioning festival, the fellowship focuses on cross-art form development and experience, inviting candidates to reach outside their comfort zone into new artistic environments that stretch their knowledge and the application of their skills. The fellowship invites you to be part of a large scale, ambitious, and international experience.
Cohort Learning
Beyond their individual attachments to commissions, Fellows will function as a cohort, supporting and encouraging each other, and will be welcomed into the Factory International team to share their practice, knowledge, and learning as they progress. This includes:
Extending
As part of the programme, Fellows will be offered an opportunity to share their knowledge and artistic verve with fellow artists in the region. These events will be part of the Public Realm and could include curating Artist Socials, debates, networking events, or our Artist Drop-Ins.
We offer Fellows the opportunity to develop their creative practice and thinking by offering an artistic mentor during their time as well as the chance to observe new commissions as part of MIF25. Additionally, the cohort will be offered action learning sets, facilitated by an accredited coach to support reflection and learning.
How to Apply
To apply, simply press the "Apply Here" button at the bottom of your screen and send us a short video and/or fill in the application form (making sure to hit submit when you're done).