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Artists from diverse cultural backgrounds are being invited to apply for a paid creative opportunity as part of the HOLDING SPACE 2026 program.
The initiative, delivered by CuriousWorks, supports both early career and established artists through new commissions, creative development and community-engaged artistic practice.
Expressions of interest are now open for the 2026 program, with applications closing Sunday, 15 March at 5pm.
Exploring “Rituals of Reciprocity”
The 2026 theme, “Rituals of Reciprocity – Land and Water,” invites artists to explore cultural understandings of land and water through creative work grounded in exchange, connection and shared responsibility between communities.
The program particularly encourages applications from First Nations artists, refugee artists and culturally diverse artists, recognising the important perspectives these communities bring to conversations about land, environment and cultural relationships.
Organisers say the theme aims to inspire artistic responses that reflect how communities relate to place, while fostering collaboration and dialogue.
Supporting Creative Development
HOLDING SPACE provides artists with the opportunity to develop new work while engaging with communities and cultural narratives.
Successful applicants will receive paid support to develop creative projects that respond to the program’s theme, offering space for experimentation, storytelling and artistic exchange.
CuriousWorks has built a reputation for supporting artists from Western Sydney and beyond, focusing on projects that connect creativity with community experience.
Applications Open Now
Artists interested in applying can access further information and submit their applications through the program’s online application portal.
Expressions of interest close Sunday, 15 March at 5pm.
The program offers an opportunity for artists to contribute to ongoing conversations about culture, environment and community through creative practice.
