Program Overview
Gertrude is now accepting applications for the Dedicated First Nations Studio as part of the Gertrude Studio Program 2027 intake.
Respected both nationally and internationally, Gertrude’s unique studio-exhibition model supports outstanding artists at pivotal moments in their careers. The two-year Gertrude Studio Program has been at the core of the organisation since its founding more than four decades ago.
Gertrude manages 16 highly subsidised artist studios located at Gertrude Contemporary, 21-31 High Street, Preston South. The studios are co-located with Gertrude’s public exhibition spaces and the organisation’s offices. Studio artists have use of shared communal spaces and workshop facilities on-site. Please note that the studios are non-residential, individual spaces on a site shared with other artists working across a range of mediums.
Each year, eight new artists are invited into the program and move into their studios progressively throughout the year. Studios become available on a rolling schedule throughout the calendar year. Intake timing will be discussed with successful applicants.
Dedicated First Nations Studio
Each year, Gertrude offers a fully-subsidised studio for a First Nations artist as part of the Gertrude Studio Program call out. At any given time there are at least two First Nations artists in the Gertrude Studio Program.
The fully-subsidised studio opportunity is open to First Nations peoples of Australia, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Applicants for the fully-subsidised studio are assessed and determined by a panel of First Nations representatives. All applicants apply via the same application form below with an option to nominate your eligibility for the fully-subsidised studio.
Cultural Safety & Accessibility
Gertrude is strongly committed to cultural diversity and cultural safety in all aspects of our program and operations. For applicants who wish to read more about how we are demonstrating this, please read our First Peoples Cultural Competency and Cultural Safety Framework and our Community Engagement Framework – Disability Inclusion Access.
Gertrude encourages collegiate participation in the community the organisation fosters and discourages anti-social behaviours. Bullying and harassment of staff or artists is not tolerated at Gertrude.
Apply
Draft and complete your application via this link.
Late applications will not be accepted or considered.
PDF Version of application saved for your own records.
To apply for the Dedicated First Nations Studio opportunity, please refer to the Gertrude Studio Program application guidelines and complete your application via this link.
Key Dates
• Applications open: Wednesday 16 September 2026
• Applications close: 11:59pm, Monday 26 October 2026
• Internal application processing and formal assessment: Late November 2026
• Successful and unsuccessful applicants notified: Early December 2026
• Public announcement of successful studio applicants: Mid December 2026
Enquiries
Please address all enquiries to apply@gertrude.org.au. Enquiries must be discussed with Gertrude before 4pm, Friday 23 October 2026.
Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions document before reaching out to Gertrude.