Seen as a vital opportunity for new, emerging and established artists and performers to develop and hone new work, Lighthouse Poole has reopened its Sanctuary residency.

For the last three years, Lighthouse has opened its Sherling Studio venue and function rooms as cost-free creation spaces in the summer months to enable artists and performers from all art forms, as well as visual artists, to progress their practice.

“We know how precious space to experiment is to artists who are developing innovative work and we are delighted to continue this support,” says Martha Earley, Creative Engagement Manager at Lighthouse.

“However, the pressure on free space is greater than ever and we are hoping to accommodate everyone.”

When faced with having to close its venues to public performance in lockdown, Lighthouse responded positively, consolidating and extending its Creative Engagement and Artist Development activities, most notably with the Sanctuary residency scheme and, to date, more than 150 artists and companies have been able to make use of the space and technical support available at Lighthouse.

Crucially, artists will again be able to apply to a limited fund to cover costs such as accommodation and travel where needed.

“Sanctuary artists have become a core part of our Lighthouse family and opportunities to engage with Lighthouse have developed far beyond their residencies,” adds Martha.

“We are very proud of the work that has been developed through Sanctuary in the last three years and have widened our reach to encompass both local and national artists. This year we are again opening out our support to visual artists, further broadening the artistic offer at Lighthouse.”

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 28 February.

A full information pack and application form is available at https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/programme/sanctuary/