Applications are invited for the Visual Arts Mentoring Programme (VAMP) 2027.

This innovative year-long programme has been developed for artists working across a broad range of creative disciplines who would benefit from the guidance, critical feedback and support of an experienced practising artist.

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The programme begins in late February 2027. Each participant is matched with a personal mentor for a period of 12 months. Mentors are primarily drawn from the experienced teaching faculty at Browne School of Art, although mentors from outside the School may also be appointed where appropriate, following consultation and agreement with all parties.

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Applicants should already have developed a committed and proficient studio practice. Suitability for the programme will be assessed by the Browne School of Art faculty as part of the application process.

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Participants receive 12 hours of individual mentoring spread across the year. Meetings are arranged by mutual agreement between mentor and mentee and may include studio visits, Zoom meetings, telephone conversations and email correspondence.

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Mentors work closely with participants to strengthen studio practice, encourage critical reflection, and deepen the relationship between ideas, process, context and finished work.

In addition, mentees are invited to attend the Painting 4 Theory and Contextual Studies Days, held twice each term on Thursdays (9.30am–3.30pm). These sessions include readings, discussions, presentations and guest talks by leading artists, curators, writers and other arts professionals. Participants are welcome to attend either the full day or selected sessions. A programme for each day will be circulated in advance.

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The programme concludes with a two-week exhibition in the BSA Gallery, held in February following the completion of the mentoring year. The exhibition will feature selected work by all VAMP participants and provides an opportunity to present the outcomes of the year’s enquiry and development to a wider audience.