Creative residency program

Creative residency program – Caroline Simpson Library EOI

Museums of History NSW is inviting applications from cultural practitioners, creatives and organisations to participate in the 2026 Caroline Simpson Library Creative Residency program, commencing in February 2026.

Take inspiration from the rich and varied collection of the Caroline Simpson Library and Research Collection, located in the heart of Sydney’s Macquarie Street precinct on Gadigal Country. Be inspired by vibrant wallpapers, fabrics and floorcoverings; browse servant manuals, architectural pattern books and trade catalogues; hum along to domestic sheet music; or explore letters and photographs that bring the home to life.

The Caroline Simpson Library Creative Residency Program offers time, space, connection and inspiration. This multidisciplinary, non-residential program provides fully subsidised access to studio space at The Mint for ten months, encouraging engagement with the library’s unique collection dedicated to the history of houses, interiors, gardens and domestic life.

The program is open to all NSW-based creative practitioners aged 18 and over at any stage of their career who are enthusiastic about the opportunity to engage with the Caroline Simpson Library and Research Collection to develop new work.

Find out more here

Applications are to be submitted online and must include:

• a covering letter (no more than 2 pages) or short video (no more than 2 minutes) outlining:

  • how the residency will benefit your creative or cultural practice

  • proposed output/s from your residency (eg program, display, or digital project)

  • the public good that will come from your residency

  • your previous public engagement experience, such as workshops, talks or performances 

• examples of previous work (no more than 6 pages)

• a CV outlining professional experience and 2 letters of support (no more than 4 pages in total)

• evidence of public liability insurance.