About our Arts Commissions

Researchers rarely have the opportunity for their life-work to be explored in new and powerful ways. Our Art Commissions aim to offer a new perspective for them; an opportunity not only to present and communicate their research outside of conventional forms but a chance to disrupt and reassess their own place within it too.

These commissions are usually led by one creative practitioner or creative collective. Unlike our Creative Fellowships which are process driven, our Arts Commissions are more output driven, with a focus on a particular research theme e.g. biodiversity, critical minerals, or health and wellbeing.

The research theme is decided by the Arts and Culture team and informed by consultation process with staff. These commissions have previously been based at both our Exeter and Cornwall campuses as well as cross campus.

Timeline and application process

The Arts Commissions happen annually and can have different durations dependent on funding and the kind of creative project.

Once the research theme has been decided upon the Arts and Culture team will develop and share a artist callout and brief. This is shared on local and national artist and creative networks and newsletters as well as on our website and social media. Each commission generally has a specific creative focus e.g. performance, visual art, poetry or creative writing.

Previously we have also employed creative producers alongside our Arts Commission to help deliver the project. Generally this callout precedes the callout for creative practitioners.

The timeline for these callouts can vary so we suggest joining our mailing list if you would like to be one of the first to know.