Mr Burge was a British entrepreneur, philanthropist and art-lover who died at the age of 51 in 2003. The final 10 years of his life were spent investing in establishing a creative hub around the Marchmont Estate in Berwickshire.
The foundation was renamed in his memory earlier this year and aims to continue his passion for the arts and create a lasting legacy in the Scottish Borders and beyond.
Applications for this exciting residency scheme are invited between Friday 8th November 2024 and Monday 6th January 2025.
The spaces are part of The Hugo Burge Foundation Studios, which is situated in specially renovated historic buildings described as ‘warm, spacious and characterful’ on the estate.
They are being offered to artists who are aged 30 and under free of charge for a year, with a possibility of extending by a further year subject to availability. They will also receive a grant of up to £1,000 to support the purchase of tools and materials.
Lucy Brown, CEO of The Hugo Burge Foundation said: “Springboard tenants will join the larger creative community at the Hugo Burge Foundation, which includes potters, silversmiths, chair-makers, sculptors and regular visiting residents.
“During their time here they’ll be expected to contribute to this community participating in open studios and social events, and offering talks or workshops where appropriate.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals to focus on, and develop their creative practice in an inspirational environment.
“We’re looking for applicants to have a minimum of three years of post-graduate experience or three years of creative practice.”
Art historian, writer and broadcaster, Dr James Fox, is the Foundation’s Creative Director. He is keen for early career artist and craftspeople from across the UK to apply for the scheme which has a deliberately simple online process.
James explains: “The individuals selected will be joining a community of like-minded people and will be nurtured by us as a Foundation.
“Young people often feel trapped in a city with high rents. Although we are not funding accommodation, the Foundation can help people find somewhere affordable to stay.
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“We have found that artists flourish when they are free from the demands of an urban, fast-paced environment. Our experience also shows that collaboration between artists working in different media happens naturally when you are part of a larger creative community.”
Glasgow-based artist and filmmaker, Aqsa Arif, 28, recently took part in a month-long residency with The Hugo Burge Foundation Studios.
She said: “I know from experience that being given studio space by the Foundation is a gift for any artist.
“Surrounded by the beautiful Scottish landscape, it offers a rare opportunity to get away from the day-to-day pressures of life and draw on the inspiration the environment as well as support from a wonderful creative community.
“I was able to do a lot of research and writing and had the time to focus and experiment on developing my creative practice. Conversations with fellow artists happened organically and fed into my own work – giving me a fresh perspective.”
