Bothy Project Residency 2025 Frequently Asked Questions

The Bothy Residency will take place at Sweeney's Bothy on the Isle of Eigg, in the Inner Hebrides from 4th to 11th October 2025.

Are the dates flexible?

No, the dates aren’t flexible. Bothy Project residencies run back-to-back and there are other residencies scheduled on either side of this week.

What kind of work is eligible?

Any practice within visual arts and craft is eligible, it isn’t restricted to any particular discipline.

What should I put in my application?

Any written applications should be a pdf, if you would like to apply in another format please contact; admin@visualartsscotland.org

The application has a number of questions about why you feel the residency would be beneficial for you and what impact it would have on your practice and also needs to include up to 6 images of work. Please try and be as specific as possible about why you think a residency on Eigg is particularly relevant or would be beneficial to your practice. Also please be realistic in what you are hoping to achieve, the residency is only a week.

Do I have to have visited the Island before?

No, we do not expect you to have visited the Eigg before, however we do expect you to demonstrate you have an understanding of the Island and its community.

Can I bring a partner/family member/friend/dog?

We are open to discussion as to whether you would like to bring someone with you, however, please note there is only one double bed in the Bothy. Well-behaved dogs are welcome.

What facilities are there in the Bothy?

Sweeney’s Bothy is a purpose-built, off-grid residency space. There is a double mezzanine bed, a wood-burning stove, kitchenette with gas hob, outdoor shower, external compost loo, a table, benches and a chair and a small library. For more info, please see Bothy Project’s Travel & Facilities webpage.

How accessible is the Bothy?

Sweeney’s Bothy is accessed on foot via a rough, sloped path and the mezzanine bed is reached by a step ladder. If you have any accessibility concerns, please contact Amanda development@visualartsscotland.org) and we will work proactively with you, making every reasonable effort to assist you in taking up an opportunity with us.

What facilities are there on the Island?

Eigg…At the pier, you’ll find the Isle of Eigg shop where you can do your food shopping, and next door is the Galmisdale Bay Cafe & Bar where you can get a bite to eat. Nearby is Eigg Adventures where you can hire a bike. For more info, please see Bothy Project’s Travel & Facilities webpage and the Isle of Eigg website.

Who is eligible to apply?

You must be a VAS member at the time of application and time of residency to be eligible, if you are not a member, as long as you join before the application closing date you are still eligible.

What is the application process?

The application link is on our website. All applications can be sent to admin@visualartsscotland.org. The initial shortlist is selected by members of the VAS team. The final awardee is selected by VAS and Bothy Project.

What if my question hasn’t been answered?

There will be a free online question and answer event on Thursday 29th May, 5pm-6pm. You can book your place here. Or email your question to admin@visualartsscotland.org