The Mali Collection Artist Commission: A Charts Commission For Artists, Designers and Makers

Artist Fee: £1500 

Deadline for applications: 23.59pm, 28 June, 2026

Successful artist to supply artwork by: 7 August 2026 

About the Commission

CHARTS is inviting proposals from artists, designers, and makers to create a new artwork inspired by the Mali Collection, a remarkable collection of over 100 artefacts assembled in Mali by Janice E. Hughes CBE between 1978 and 1979.

This design commission forms part of a wider programme for CHARTS, exploring the potential of support for the future acquisition, care, interpretation, and public engagement with the Mali Collection in Argyll. The commissioned artwork will be used to raise awareness of and engagement with the collection and its future public life.

The first application of the artwork will be as a limited-edition silk scarf produced in support of our ongoing work and launched at a fundraising event at the Garrick Club in London in October 2026.

This commission is an opportunity to engage creatively with a remarkable collection of artefacts, materials, craft traditions and cultural histories, and to create a contemporary response that connects the collection's past with its future. Artists are invited to respond creatively to images that depict the collection's materials, forms, patterns, and histories.

Download the full Commission description here for information about the commission, how to apply and key applications information. 

How to apply

To apply for this commission, please forward an application with the subject line Mali Collection Artist Commission, alongside a completed Equalities monitoring form (see below)  by 23.59pm, 28th June to Kirstenm@chartsargyllandisles.org.

Please note that all applicants will receive a response, and the selection panel's decision is final. 

We regret that only one commission is available at this time.

Equalities Monitoring: Please complete our equalities monitoring form here.

For queries, please contact: Kirstenm@chartsargyllandisles.org

Image: Item 48, Musical Gourd Rattle. The Mali Collection. Photo by Tyro Heath.