SPACE Artists Awarded a-n Artists’ Bursaries 2025-26

We are proud to announce that three artists from our space community have been awarded prestigious a-n Artists’ Bursaries 2025-26:

Mary Pullen Deacon
Tilly Hawkins
Rachel Jordan

Transformative Funding for Artists Across the UK

This year, 155 artists received a share of £206,850 through the a-n Artists’ Bursaries programme. Open to all a-n Artist members, the bursaries – ranging from £500 to £1,500 – are designed to support professional development at every stage of an artist’s career.

With over 1,300 applications submitted, the selection process was highly competitive. The high number and exceptional quality of applications reflect both the demand for meaningful artist support and the dedication artists bring to developing their practice.

The peer review panel included Artists Council members Clémentine Bedos, Sarah Francis, and Alys Scott-Hawkins, supported by Natalia Palombo, Head of Programmes at a-n.

Alys Scott-Hawkins shared:

‘The quality of applications was incredibly high. It’s clear that members know exactly what support and development would benefit their work right now… It was a real privilege to be part of a process that supports artists and to see the impact a-n bursaries has.’

Natalia Palombo added:

‘Our bursaries are designed to support individual, professional development… Recipients will use their bursary for training, to attend events or exhibitions, organise mentorship and peer exchange with other artists or arts professionals, amongst many more activities. We’re excited to see all these wonderful ideas and activities unfold throughout the year.’

Supporting Artists to Thrive

Unlike project-based funding, the a-n bursaries focus on sustaining and strengthening individual artistic practice. They provide vital space for research, skill development, mentoring, networking, experimentation, and reflection — all essential but often underfunded aspects of artistic growth.

For our artists, this recognition represents:

  • Investment in their creative development

  • Validation from a respected peer-led panel

  • Momentum for the next phase of their practice

  • Opportunities to expand networks and explore new ways of working

We are excited to see how Mary, Tilly, and Rachel use this support to push their practices forward over the coming year.

As an organisation committed to nurturing artists and championing creative ambition, it’s incredibly rewarding to see members of our community recognised on a national platform. Funding like this makes a real difference. It creates breathing room, opens doors, strengthens confidence and enables artists to take bold, thoughtful steps in their careers.

https://www.a-n.co.uk/news/transformative-funding-155-artists-receive-a-share-of-206850/