Applications are open for the 2027 Arts Northern Rivers First Nations Scholarship
Arts Northern Rivers is offering the First Nations Scholarship to support a First Nations artist from the Northern Rivers to undertake the Visual Arts Foundation Course.
The Visual Arts Foundation is Byron School of Arts’ first year course designed to provide an extensive grounding in the Visual Arts. This is a structured studio program incorporating expanded approaches to disciplines including - but not limited to - drawing, painting, printmaking, 3D studies, installation practice, digital media, design principles, colour theory, art history and critical thinking.
The scholarship is intended to support the successful applicant to develop their visual arts practice through structured study, experimentation and engagement with a community of practising artists.
Find out more about the course here: Visual Arts Foundation Course 2027
“It’s taking me further in my work, opened doors for me regarding exhibitions. Having all those beautiful contacts with the whole art community, teachers, art gallery owners, curators, all of that, and just having all that connection. It’s been an amazing journey. The opportunities are out there and you just have to reach out and take them.”
- Kay Lee Williams, BSA Scholar 2025
Key Dates
Monday 9 November - Applications open
Monday 7 December, 5pm - Applications close
Before 31 December 2026 - Successful candidates will be contacted
Tuesday 23 February 2027 - Course start date
FAQs
Who can apply?
The scholarship is for a First Nations artist from the Northern Rivers who is interested in developing their visual arts practice through the year-long Visual Arts Foundation Course at Byron School of Art.
Do I need to identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander?
Yes. This is a dedicated First Nations opportunity. Applicants will be asked to identify as Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander as part of the application. Providing your Nation or cultural community is optional.
Do I need to be an established or professional artist?
No. The scholarship is about supporting the development of your creative practice, so we welcome applications from artists at different stages of their practice.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers tuition for the year-long Visual Arts Foundation Course at Byron School of Art. The successful candidate will receive a contribution toward materials.
What is the Visual Arts Foundation Course?
It is a year-long course at Byron School of Art designed to develop visual arts practice through structured study, experimentation and engagement with practising artists. The 2027 course begins 23 February 2027.
Do I need to be available for the full course?
Yes. Applicants should be available to undertake the Visual Arts Foundation Course in 2027. ANR is asking applicants to review the course dates before applying.
Where is the course held?
The course is delivered at Byron School of Art, 112 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby NSW 2482.
What will I need to provide in my application?
You’ll be asked for some basic personal information and to tell us about your creative practice, why you are interested in the course, what you hope to develop or explore, and how the opportunity could support your practice.
What if I have access requirements?
Applicants can let ANR know about any access requirements relating to the application, interview or participation in the course. This information can be provided as part of the application.
How will applications be assessed?
Applications will be considered in relation to the applicant’s current creative practice, their interest in undertaking the course, what they hope to gain from the opportunity and how the scholarship could support the development of their practice.
Will there be an interview?
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to have a conversation with the selection panel about their practice and what they hope to gain from the opportunity.
When do applications close?
Applications close at 5pm Monday 7 December 2026.
When will I find out if I am successful?
Successful candidates will be advised before 31 December 2026.
When does the course start?
The course starts on 23 February 2027.
Where can I find out more about the course?
Applicants can read more about the Visual Arts Foundation Course 2027.
