The Wild Islands Residency 2027

The Wild Islands residency explores how we define ‘wild places’, our preconceptions of seemingly remote landscapes, and how we as humans fit into these stories.

We’ll be considering these ideas in the context of the Hebrides through the local folklore, geography and history, and the notion of ‘thin places’ between our world and that of the more than human.

We will also be asking what this all means in the larger story of the global climate crisis where humanity has impacted even the most seemingly untouched places. Underlying the residency is the question, ‘Is there anywhere truly wild left? And what is the definition of wilderness anyway?’ The residency will give artists a space to explore notions of remoteness and ecology with a strong connection to nature.

We will sail to the edge places, exploring the theme of wilderness – away from civilisation and seemingly untouched, yet always we can find traces of human interaction with the land. The week will culminate in an evening sharing our thoughts and personal responses to our week at sea.

This residency will be an opportunity to experience the ocean first hand in a very intimate way. In addition to some wonderful exploring under sail, we aim to go ashore each evening to bridge the littoral zone between land and sea and have space to develop our personal connections to the landscape. No prior sailing experience is necessary and we’ll get everyone involved in the running of the boat, however due to the remote places we’ll be visiting, a sense of adventure is an advantage!

Applicants should have an interest in working within a strong team environment in collaboration with other artists, including a willingness to discuss and share ideas, and to work together as a crew to sail the ship.

Application Process: We ask applicants to submit a brief project proposal and no more than 5 images (or other supporting documentation such as video, sound etc.) as an emailed PDF with images, and/or links so that we can learn a bit about you, and to ensure that all applicants will get as much as possible out of the programme. Applications should be sent to info@sailbritain.org, subject – Wild Islands Residency Application + [your name]

Dates:

Week 1 – 26th June – 3rd July 2027, Stornoway – Mallaig,

Week 2 – 3rd – 9th July 2027, Mallaig – Mallaig

You are welcome to apply for one or both weeks

The deadline for applications is Friday 19th February 2027, but applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.