The Rapid Residencies: an initiative to support the local creative community
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Science Gallery Dublin and Science Gallery Detroit launched a round of experimental grants: virtual residencies available for local makers, creators, writers, artists and designers.
Science Gallery Dublin’s Rapid Residencies
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought change and disruption for many, including cultural producers and creators. To spark innovation and creativity during these challenging times, SG Dublin piloted a new experimental initiative: a virtual residency programme called Rapid Residencies, which supported artists to collaborate with expert researchers on developing a new project. The creative community was invited to apply to investigate an idea over five weeks, with a €1,000 grant to be awarded to the chosen proposals.
The response was overwhelming, and the project received nearly 200 applications. As a result of the diversity, ingenuity and creativity shown by the outpouring of applications, the Provost’s Academic Development Fund from Trinity College Dublin offered additional funding to triple the number of total residencies, awarding 18 Rapid Residencies in total. The successful applicants included designer and journalist Valerie Vetter, visual artist Martina O’Brien and actor and writer Shane O’Reilly. These grant holders explored ideas that investigate art and technology, science and society, local community and curiosity.
“My experience as an advisor meeting new artists, and working alongside colleagues made for a rewarding process”
Designer and journalist Valerie Vetter, Rapid Residencies’ awardee, Science Gallery Dublin
Inspired by the community’s response to Dublin’s initiative, SG Detroit launched their own virtual residency program for creatives residing in their city. The program fostered conceptual ideas that address and appeal to young adults and that serve as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Each of the recipients is also invited to participate in a culminating virtual event, which will include a moderated dialogue with the public. SG Detroit offered grants of $1,000 USD and was open to a broad range of ideas and investigations, including those with uncertain outcomes or that are experimental.
WHAT THEY SAID?
‘My experience as an advisor as part of this programme was an enjoyable one, meeting new people, new art practices, and working alongside colleagues from other departments made for a rewarding and affirming process. I got a fuzzy feeling assisting artists as they embarked on new artistic journeys, connecting them with experts and specialists, and being there for them whatever they needed. Although the engagement period was short, it certainly made an impact on me. I hope that with the continued development of the work they began as part of the programme we at Science Gallery Dublin can support them and their practice in the future.’ – Mitzi D’Alton, Residency Producer (Science Gallery Dublin)
WHAT WERE THE BENEFITS AND IMPACTS?
▶ Providing an important resource to a local community group
▶ Public engagement
▶ Inspiring creativity
▶ Career Advancement
▶ Reaching New Minds
▶ Innovation
Sources: Science Gallery Dublin and Science Gallery Detroit’s website, correspondence with Mitzi D’Alton, Residency Producer (Science Gallery Dublin)
Compiled by: Jahitza Balaniuk, Science Gallery International
Activity date(s): 2020