● Emerging Artist Programs
ArtsLab
ArtsLab is one of Australia’s premier emerging artist programs. A six-month laboratory that offers free space, masterclasses, networking opportunities and professional mentorship.
ArtsLab Overview
● What is ArtsLab?
ArtsLab is Shopfront Arts Co-op’s flagship emerging artist residency program. A six-month laboratory that offers free space, masterclasses, networking opportunities and professional mentorship. The residency culminates in a festival-style season to present your work to the public.
This residency isn’t just about creating work; it is about learning what it takes to have a sustainable career in the arts.
● Is ArtsLab for me?
We are committed to creating inclusive and accessible opportunities for all artists to create new work in any form: dance, visual art, theatre, film, music, performance, digital art and more.
ArtsLab is for early-career artists aged 18 – 26. We welcome diversity and encourage artist submissions from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and people with disability.
● How will ArtsLab help me as an emerging artist?
Our Shopfront ArtsLab artists for 2024/25 will receive:
Six-month access to studio/rehearsal space –days and times by negotiation (September -March);
The opportunity to create work remotely if it suits your practice or access requirements, or you just prefer to work in your own space;
Regular catch ups with other residents and Shopfront artistic team;
Masterclasses;
Mid-point development showing;
An industry leader as mentor throughout the process;
Dramaturgical support from Shopfront’s Creative Director;
Technical support for mid-point showing and full season of your work;
Premiere your new work as a part of the ArtsLab festival season in March 2025
Shopfront investment in the ArtsLab works for further development and/or future seasons at Shopfront or other venues.
● How do I apply?
Our Shopfront ArtsLab artists for 2024/25 will receive:
Six-month access to studio/rehearsal space –days and times by negotiation (September -March);
The opportunity to create work remotely if it suits your practice or access requirements, or you just prefer to work in your own space;
Regular catch ups with other residents and Shopfront artistic team;
Masterclasses;
Mid-point development showing;
An industry leader as mentor throughout the process;
Dramaturgical support from Shopfront’s Creative Director;
Technical support for mid-point showing and full season of your work;
Premiere your new work as a part of the ArtsLab festival season in March 2025
Shopfront investment in the ArtsLab works for further development and/or future seasons at Shopfront or other venues.
ArtsLab 2026 applications have closed.
But your turn might be next! Register to our Emerging Artist List to be the first to hear when 2027 applications open.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No previous experience necessary!
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We recommend that all participants bring a bottle of water with them. If you are attending several workshops on the same day, we would recommend you bring a snack. Shopfront have a kitchenette facility that participants are welcome to use to fill up their water bottles, store food and warm your snacks.
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We have no specific dress code at Shopfront Arts Co-op, however we would recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing for your workshops and flat shoes (no heels please).
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Participants are welcome to take time out of their designated workshop if they need to. A member of Shopfront staffing will check on you and support you.
Watch previous ArtsLab shows
“I feel that Shopfront sets the bar for how to foster and nurture the arts community - so much that I feel spoilt!”