Bursary Awards
Backwater Artists Group has supported emerging artists since 1990 through a dedicated Bursary Programme developed in partnership with MTU Crawford College of Art & Design.
Each year we provide studio access, mentorship and exhibition opportunities to graduating artists. To date, over 130 artists have benefited from these awards.
Studios Graduate Residency Awards (aka ‘Paint Store Bursaries’) awarded by MTU Crawford College of Art & Design. We have been providing these awards since 1990 and over 130 artists have benefited.Bursary Awards 2025
Ciarán Langford Memorial Bursary
Billie Adele O’Regan
Artist Bio
Moving Image Bursary
Danny Foley
Artist Bio
Both awards provide:
- Six months studio access
- Mentorship from an invited arts professional
- A solo exhibition in Studio 12
- Technical support
- Artist fee
- PR support
Graduate Residency Awards 2025
Graduate Residency Award
Caoimhe Fitzpatrick
Artist Bio
Graduate Residency Award
Robert Lawton
Artist Bio
Awarded in partnership with MTU Crawford College of Art & Design, this nine-month residency provides studio space at Backwater Artists Group and access to MTU CCAD library facilities in exchange for part-time support within the MTU Materials Shop.
Backwater Artists Network Awards 2025
This award provides one year of Backwater Artists Network membership, including access to the Members Programme, exhibition opportunities and professional development supports.
Bursary Testimonials
As a recent graduate of MTU CCAD Fine art, I was fortunate to receive a Backwater Artists Studios Graduate membership award in 2024. This was an invaluable opportunity to be part of one of Cork’s most vibrant art spaces and networks where I’ve received amazing access to peer knowledge and support, curator visits, exhibition opportunities, courses, artists talks and much more. As a graduate, it can be challenging to navigate the next stage and Backwater offer a vital link and support with the many opportunities offered.
Lisa O’Sullivan
The Backwater Graduate Awards offer important support for recent graduates navigating the challenging transition from college into the professional art world. Backwater Artists Group provides studio spaces that allow recent graduates from Crawford College of Art and Design to continue developing their practice after graduation. Being awarded the graduate residency offers not only a dedicated space to work, but also the opportunity to refine skills, experiment creatively, and build confidence as a practicing artist. This award also provides emerging artists with a sense of community and a network of other artists in the same field. With limited opportunities available for recent graduates, Backwater Artists Group plays a crucial role in helping emerging artists grow their practice during a pivotal stage in their careers.
Caoimhe Fitzpatrick