Legacy Centre of Excellence is looking for an emerging conceptual portrait photographer from Birmingham or the wider West Midlands for Legacy AiR: Chains.

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The paid residency runs from October 2026 to March 2027 and is connected to Chains, a co-production with Birmingham Rep, written by Rem Conway and directed by Madeleine Kludje.

The selected artist will receive £2,500 for approximately 7 to 8 agreed days, structured 1:1 mentoring, R&D access to the Chains creative process and two exhibition opportunities at Legacy.

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Selected existing work will be shown in Legacy's Downstairs Auditorium. The artist will also create 5 to 6 strong new conceptual portrait works, or an equivalent focused photography-led digital or projection sequence, for a new installation in the Café Lounge.

The new work can explore projection, moving image, sound, lighting and spatial elements, but photography should remain at the centre of the response.

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The artist will be able to consult with writer Rem Conway and director Madeleine Kludje and, subject to the production schedule, may observe rehearsals and engage with cast members as part of their R&D. They will also receive paid creative consultation around lighting, soundscape and the spatial experience of the exhibition.

The development offer includes 1:1 mentoring from 2 established photographers, plus practical Legacy support to explore a future Arts Council England DYCP or other funding opportunities where appropriate.

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The Artist in Residence will also deliver one public creative workshop, so applicants should be confident facilitating a session connected to their own practice.

You do not need previous residency or immersive exhibition experience. We want to see a strong developing conceptual portrait practice, a clear connection to the themes of Chains and the potential to grow through the opportunity.