VACMA funding returns for Orkney's artists and craft makers

The Visual Artists and Craft Makers (VACMA) Award is now open for applications by Orkney artists, for the thirteenth year running, to help develop new directions and deepen skills.

Supported by Creative Scotland through funding from the National Lottery in partnership with the Enterprise and Economic Growth Service and Orkney Islands Council, the 2026-27 scheme offers two levels of bursaries - either £1000 or £500.  Full guidance on which level best suits an applicant's proposed activity is available at the link below.

Funding can be used to support developmental research, skills training, equipment, studio work, exhibitions and mentoring. Applicants must live in or maintain a studio space in Orkney.

Artists who are deaf, disabled, neurodivergent or living with chronic illness, or who have caring responsibilities and additional costs relating to their access needs and practice, can apply for Personal Access Costs, for themselves or collaborators.

There will be two rounds of applications, the first closing at 5pm on Tuesday 20 October 2026. A second round will open early next year and close on Tuesday 2 February 2027.

Interested artists are invited to attend an information session with Creative Scotland at 7pm on 29 September 2026, at Pier Arts Centre and online via Teams. The event will include a presentation from Creative Scotland's visual arts department, with follow-up Q&As, as well as a chance to hear from local artists who've benefited from the scheme in the past. Representatives from the local panel who review applications will also speak about the application process and the types of projects they're seeking to support.

If you’re unable to attend in person, contact emma.gee@orkney.gov.uk for an online invite link.

Guidance, application packs and case studies can be found at www.orkney.gov.uk/vacma.