About The Tracey Emin Foundation

The Tracey Emin Foundation is a registered charity based in Margate, focused on supporting and promoting the visual arts. Its aim is to advance public education in both the appreciation and practice of visual art, including through the establishment of an art school in Margate.

The foundation provides professional studio spaces through TKE Studios, giving artists the space and support to develop their work. It also runs two residency programmes: the TEARS (Tracey Emin Artist Residency), a 14-month residency supporting painters at a pivotal stage in their careers, and the Victoria House Residency, which offers shorter-term studio opportunities for artists working across disciplines.

Through these programmes, the foundation helps build a strong artistic community in Margate and supports broader public engagement with contemporary art.

The Team.

As part of its commitment to artist development, the Foundation also offers ongoing learning opportunities through workshops and talks. One key contributor to this programme is artist Laura Footes, a former TKE Studios resident who now leads art education sessions for current artists.

Laura delivers a fortnightly session for both the TEARS residents and TKE Studios artists, combining a 30-minute art history lecture with a two-hour life drawing class. Her teaching balances deep historical context with practical drawing skills, helping artists develop a stronger critical framework and refine their visual language. Drawing on her own practice and academic knowledge, she fosters a supportive and stimulating environment that encourages experimentation, discussion, and growth.

These sessions are an important part of TKE Studios’ belief that continuous education—rooted in both historical understanding and technical practice—is essential to sustaining a meaningful and ambitious artistic practice.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • The Tracey Emin Foundation, a registered charity (Charity No. 1205166), is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for the growth and development of contemporary artists.

  • For inquiries specifically related to Tracey Emin, please contact White Cube Gallery.

  • The deadline for applications has now passed and the programme will be from April 2025 - July 2026 - Please see HERE for more detail.