Loire Valley Summer Residency 2026
Application Pack & Frequently Asked Questions
General Assembly is pleased to invite emerging artists to apply for our Loire Valley Spring Residency, held at Le Moulin de Marnay in Azay-le-Rideau, France.
This funded residency offers artists the rare opportunity to step away from the rhythms of urban life and immerse themselves in the stillness and wildness of the French countryside. Over a two-week period, residents are encouraged to explore their practice in a setting that supports deep reflection, creative experimentation, and personal renewal.
Artists are invited to attune to the natural environment, embrace the unfamiliar, and reconnect with intuitive making. Three residents will participate in the Spring 2026 program.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Who are we looking for?
General Assembly identifies, develops, and showcases exceptional artists through exhibitions in our London gallery and residencies in the Loire Valley. We support practices that are rigorous, historically informed, and conceptually strong—particularly those that interrogate the cultural and visual value of art in contemporary life.
We welcome applications from:
- Emerging artists
- International artists not currently represented in the UK
- Artists who would benefit from focused time in a rural setting
- Artists whose work we believe could develop meaningfully toward future exhibitions with General Assembly
Selection Criteria
1. Artistic Potential and Rigor
We look for artists who demonstrate clear potential for development. Applicants should show commitment to conceptually engaged, materially rich, and evolving practices.
2. Relevance to General Assembly’s Vision
We prioritise artists whose practices align with our curatorial ethos—especially those exploring history, cultural meaning, and visual language in original ways.
3. Capacity to Benefit from a Rural Residency
Applicants should articulate how their work or process could be enhanced by time spent in nature, isolation, or open space.
4. International or Underrepresented UK Presence
We are especially interested in supporting artists whose work is not yet widely seen in the UK, offering a platform to expand their audience.
Who reviews the applications?
Applications are assessed by General Assembly’s Founder Melanie Ashton and the gallery team.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: 4 June 2026
- Applications Close: 14 June 2026
- Decision Notification: On or before 1 July 2026
- Residency Dates: 6-27 August 2026 (dates are set and not flexible)
How do I apply?
Please submit a single PDF document titled with your surname, including:
- A one-page written proposal: What stage are you at in your practice? How would you like to use your time at the residency?
- Your artist bio and statement
- A selection of 5–10 images that represent your current practice
- Your Instagram handle and/or website
- Submit your application to residency@generalassemblylondon.com
Is there an application fee?
Yes, a non-refundable application fee of £25 is required. This includes:
- Application review by our curatorial team
- Consideration for one of three funded residencies
Payment methods:
- Bank Transfer
Ashton and Associates Ltd., General Assembly London
Sort Code: 23-08-01
Account Number: 57897156 - Stripe Payment Link
What’s included if I’m selected?
- Three-week residency at Le Moulin de Marnay (6-27 August 2026)
- Accommodation and studio space
- Food and wine
- Use of a manual transmission Fiat 500 for local travel (with valid driver’s license)
- Studio visit and dinner with General Assembly patrons
- Inclusion in a group exhibition in the Loire Valley or in London
What do I need to cover?
- Your transportation to Tours, France
- Travel insurance (required)
What happens if I’m selected?
If invited, you’ll be asked to:
- Confirm your participation by 10 July 2026
- Let us know you’re comfortable with animals (dogs, cats, chickens live at the property)
- Create one work for the residency’s permanent collection
- Collaborate on social media sharing during and after the residency
Can you help with visa applications?
Yes, we can provide a supporting letter. However, we cannot guarantee visa approval. Securing the visa is the responsibility of the applicant.