Welcome.

Welcome to Victoria House Residency. This handbook is designed to guide you through your time with us, providing all the essential information you need to settle in and make the most of your time here.

As a registered charity, our mission is to nurture and sustain a thriving artistic community while making a meaningful contribution to the broader cultural landscape. Any income generated from art sales is reinvested directly into the foundation, enabling us to maintain and improve our facilities, run impactful programmes like TEAR, the Victoria House Residency and support emerging and established artists.

Dame Tracey Emin DBE founded TKE Studios in 2023 and the Victoria House Residency in 2025 to create a space where artists create and connect with others in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Residency Guidelines

  • We encourage all participants of the residency to utilise their spaces actively. The residency exists to support and foster creativity and productivity. All participants have the opportunity to showcase what they have produced during their time with us in an exhibition. We encourage artists to dedicate their time with us to work towards this exhibition.

    We ask that you do NOT use your time with us to create work for external / separate exhibitions / art fairs etc. You should be fully immersed in creating work whilst undertaking this opportunity. All work created should be available for selection in the end of residency exhibition.

  • You have personally been selected by Tracey to participate in the residency and Tracey will select and curate the residency exhibition.

    Tracey’s time is limited and depending on her schedule you may spend only a small amount of time with her. The residency is about your own journey and motivation and we hope that you are inspired by living in Margate and by interacting with artists at TKE Studios. It is not ‘mentorship’ by Tracey but she will certainly discuss your work with you and offer advice any time that she does see you. Time with Tracey unfortunately cannot be guaranteed.

  • PLEASE SEE THE TKE HEALTH & SAFETY DOCUMENT

    First aid boxes are located in the kichen area

    Please contact 111 for medical advice and 999 for emergencies.

  • Artists are responsible for arranging their own contents insurance for their work.

    The building insurance does not cover personal belongings or artwork.

    We strongly encourage joining Artist Network at a cost of £38 / year

    https://www.a-n.co.uk/

    TKE Studios and Victoria House has Public Liability Insurance and covers artwork in exhibitions

  • Smoking is strictly prohibited across the entire building for artists and guests alike, including outdoor areas.

    Drug use is strictly prohibited.

    Alcohol Consumption - please show consideration for others

  • PERSONAL SPACE:

    Whilst your bedroom is your personal space, we highly encourage that you make your bed everyday. You have been supplied with two bedding sets so please change and wash every few weeks. Please do not leave cups, plates, food in your rooms. Please vacuum your room regularly.

    COMMUNAL AREAS:

    It is essential you keep these areas clean and tidy, please use cupboards to keep food in and not keep on the counter top - try to keep appearances as much as you can. Please keep food in containers wherever possible

    Please do not obstruct hallways

    Respect each other and do your bit, wash dishes, stack and unstack dishwasher, don’t leave clothes in washer, empty bins.

    Do not leave expired food / uncovered food in fridge

    Do not dispose of the following in the bins:

    • Wet oil paint or oil-soaked rags (fire hazard).

    • Batteries (dispose of in designated bins at local supermarkets).

    • Large items or rubble (use Thanet Tip for disposal).

      Sinks:

    Use the specific outside art sink to wash hands / brushes

    Oil paint must not be poured into any sinks or drains.

    Do not use indoor sinks for painting related washing!

    Cleaner:

    We pay for a cleaner (Jo) to clean the communal areas in the house twice a week. This does not cover your bedroom or private bathroom. If you would like Jo to clean these, please arrange a private payment with Jo.

  • Please ensure that the door is closed and locked when you leave or enter the building. Ensure the backdoor is kept locked. Ensure windows are closed and not left open when not in the building, especially downstairs.

    Do not let stangers enter the building, we will inform you if tradesmen need to enter. Always check with us if you are not sure who somebody is.

  • The house is fitted with smoke detectors. Do not hesitate and leave the house immediately if you suspect a fire. Call 999 immediately

  • Please respect your fellow housemates when welcoming guests to the house. It is always best practise to check in with each other to make sure your guests are not hindering the enjoyment of other people living in the house.

    Extended Visits: This is deemed 3 nights+ or regular visitors ( someone who stays overnight several times a week) If you would like a visitor to come for more than 3 nights or if the same person is staying regularly it is essential that you gain permission with Elissa or Alex for this.

    Children: This should be up to the discretion of your 3 other housemates. Do not allow children to be left unattended in the studio at any time.

  • Out of respect for all residents in the house, we do not allow pets to accompany you to the residency. If friends bring animals round when they are visiting, please check with housemates out of courtesy for allergies or fear / dislike of animals.

  • There is one hour street parking outside the house ( free on evening and Sundays)

    There is free parking in nearby streets

    We encourage sustainable transport options, such as bicycles or scooters.

    Please do not leave bicycles in communal areas of the house

    There is limited visitor parking accross at TKE studios reserved for VIPs, such as, gallerists or collectors. Please notify Alex in advance if you require a visitor space for such visitors

  • You must inform us of any press inquiries regarding the Artist’s residency, the Building Owner, or the Space.

    Press shall not be invited to the Space without prior written consent of Tracey Emin Foundation and TEF staff should be present for interviews and photographs by press in the Space.

  • End-of-Residency
    As your residency comes to an end, please ensure that all personal belongings are removed, your room and workspace is cleaned. Any furniture you have brought into the house must be removed unless you have arranged with Alex to leave.

    Artwork

    Unless otherwise discussed, you will be responsible for taking your own artwork with you. For any artworks that are used in a Tracey Emin Foundation exhibition, you will need to arrange collection of these at the end of the exhibition period.

    Any sold work can be wrapped and left at TKE Studios for shipping. All buyers will be responsible for shipping of art work but we are happy to liase and organise this.

    Returning Keys/Fobs
    All keys, fobs, or any borrowed items must be returned to the studio manager by your final day and notify the team if any damages require attention before you leave.

    Archiving or Documenting Work Created During the Programme
    We encourage artists to document their work as part of their residency both for their own records and to contribute to the studio’s archive. Share high-quality images, videos, or written reflections with Alex. If you’re open to it, we’d love to feature your work on our platforms or as part of our legacy initiatives.

Professional Conduct

  • At Victoria House, maintaining a respectful and collaborative atmosphere is essential to ensuring that all artists can thrive. The following guidelines are designed to help foster a harmonious environment for everyone:

    • Respect for Peers: Be mindful of your fellow artists. Everyone’s creative process is unique, so respect each other’s space, time, and boundaries. Avoid interrupting others when they are working unless it’s absolutely necessary.

    • Noise Levels: Keep noise to a reasonable level to maintain a productive and focused atmosphere. If you need to use tools or equipment that generate significant noise, try to schedule these activities during hours when they will least disrupt others. Be considerate when playing music—use headphones whenever possible or check with those nearby before playing it aloud.

    • Studio Cleanliness: Keep your workspace tidy and organised to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for everyone. Dispose of waste properly and follow any recycling guidelines in place. Don’t leave food out; we don’t want mice.

      Sinks: use outdoor sink only for art related washing

      Toxic chemicals: please use alternatives wherever possible. If you need to use something with strong odors make sure the studio is well ventilated and you have discussed with your studio mate first.

      Conflict Resolution: Should conflicts arise, address them respectfully and constructively. If needed, contact Elissa or Alex for support in resolving issues.

  • The Tracey Emin Foundation is committed to an inclusive environment for everyone. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and do not tolerate any form of discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, age, or any other characteristic. All members of our community are expected to treat one another with respect, kindness, and fairness. If you experience or witness any behavior that goes against these values, please report it to Alex or Elissa immediately so appropriate action can be taken.

  • Should you encounter any issues or disputes, Elissa and Alex are your contacts for conflict resolution. They are here to listen, mediate, and work with all parties involved to reach a fair and respectful solution. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a disagreement, or a more complex issue, don’t hesitate to approach them in confidence. Our goal is to resolve conflicts quickly and constructively.

  • Studios are for professional use, please avoid using the studio for social gatherings

    If sharing a space, work with your studio mate to negotiate suitable times for professionals to visit your studios for meetings

Communication and Support

  • To respect everyone’s time, we kindly ask that you only contact staff during working hours unless it’s an emergency. First port of contact is the Studio manager, Alex Menace:


    Alex Menace - Studio Manager
    alex@traceyeminfoundation.com
    07919 282662

    Mon - Fri. 8am - 5pm

    Jo Keem - Housekeeper
    07720 852461

    Mon - Fri 8am - 4pm

    Elissa Cray - Director
    elissa@traceyeminfoundation.com
    07930 477446

    Mon - Fri. 10am - 6pm

    Please email at any time but note that we may not read until working hours


  • 80 Victoria Road

    Margate

    CT9 1RD

  • WHEN YOU START YOUR RESIDENCY:

    Whats app group:

    Click here to join. The group offers dedicated spaces for general chat, Victoria House discussions TEARS-only discussions, TKE Artists-only conversations, maintenance requests, and a platform to share recommendations for books, films, exhibitions, and more.

    It is Mandatory for you to join ‘Victoria House Residency’ and optional to join other groups.

  • From London Airports:

    Gatwick Airport: Take the train from Gatwick to London Victoria, then a direct train to Margate.

    Heathrow Airport: Take the Elizabeth Line to London St Pancras, then a train to Margate.

    Stansted/Luton: Travel into central London first, then take a train from St Pancras/Victoria to Margate.

    Trains: Margate has direct connections from London St Pancras (high-speed, ~1hr 30m) and London Victoria (~1hr 50m).

    Coach (Cheaper Option): National Express operates services from London to Margate.

    During your time in Margate it is recommend to buy a Network Rail Card if you plan to visit London more than twice as. you get a 1/3 saving on the train price. Please note the first train you can use this on it the 9.45am one. See here for details: https://www.network-railcard.co.uk/

  • For any maintenance issues, please use the dedicated WhatsApp group to ensure a swift response. For general TKE-related matters, feel free to post in the general WhatsApp group. If you have more delicate or private concerns, don’t hesitate to speak directly with Alex

    Please report anything you see immediately to ensure smooth running of the studios

  • Advice Line: call 111

    Emergency: Call 999

    Accident and Emergency: Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital

    Ramsgate Rd, Margate CT9 4AN

    NHS (National Health Service) is free for residents (you may be charged for non-emergency care if you're on a visitor visa).

    Ensure you have Travel Insurance in place if you are a visitor to UK

    Doctors Surgery:

    GP (General Practitioner): Your first point of contact for non-emergency medical needs.

    Find and register at a local GP via NHS website

    You will need proof of address and your passport to register.

  • SUPERMARKETS

    IN MARGATE:

    Morrisions - College Square, Hawley St, Margate CT9 1PR

    Aldi: Zion Pl, Margate CT9 1RP

    Tesco: 281 Northdown Rd, Cliftonville, Margate CT9 3PL

    BORDERS OF MARGATE:

    Large supermarkets:

    Asda, Tesco, Marks and Spencer, Lidl, Sainsburys all up at Westwood Cross shopping area. There is a also a Waitrose in Ramsgate.

    Food deliveries: All major food supermarkets deliver to the area - look at their websites.

    Deliveroo: offers speedy grocery deliveries to the house but are more expensive.

    Farm shops: Quex Barn

    You can organise veg boxes from Nash Farms: https://www.facebook.com/NashFarmThanet

    Or national delivery services such as Oddbox, Riverfood, kentbveg wll do veg box deliveries

  • Art Community: Visit TKE Studios, Limbo, Crate, Well Projects, Quench and Open School East.

    Networking: Join Facebook / Instagram groups (Margate Artist Network, Margate Creatives), Eventbrite for local events and WhatsApp communities.

Programme Activities and Opportunities

  • Critiques, Workshops, and Guest Lectures

    Accross the road at TKE Studios, we host calendar of events. Regular group critiques encourage constructive feedback and peer learning.

    Workshops, lectures and tutorials are an integral part of the TEAR Programme. We open some of these opportunities to TKE studio holders, when we do we will notify you via the Whatsapp group.

    We also hold a biannual Summer Fair and a Christmas Bazaar, which are excellent opportunities to get involved. These events are a great way to showcase your work by having a stall—straightforward selling or something more inventive and interactive. It is our hope that ALL artists engage in both.

  • Expectations for Participation in Exhibitions, Open Studios, or Community Projects

    Artists at TKE Studios are encouraged to actively contribute to the creative community by participating in exhibitions, open studio events, and community-driven projects. Whether through solo presentations, group shows, or collaborative installations, these opportunities allow artists to connect with diverse audiences while fostering meaningful dialogue about contemporary art.

  • By connecting with fellow residents, visiting artists, and local creatives, you can build lasting relationships that extend beyond their time at the studio.

    TKE Studios often facilitate visits from curators, critics, collectors, other galleries and museums. We will check with you if you would like to add your studio to be included in any of these visits, your involvement will always be at your own discretion.

    Being part of TKE also means being part of the vibrant Margate arts community. We encourage you to get out there and get involved—Margate is brimming with galleries, studios, and creative spaces to explore. TKE Studios artists Lindsey and Guy run Quench Gallery in town, and Alex, our studio manager, is actively involved with Margate Pride. There’s always something happening in Margate, so make the most of it.

  • TKE Studios is home to a wealth of talented individuals, many of whom possess skills and knowledge you might not yet know about. We’re keen to foster a culture of sharing and learning from one another, so if you’re looking for advice or collaboration in a specific area, don’t hesitate to ask in the WhatsApp group.

    We’re also excited to develop this into a more structured event series or one-off workshops where residents can showcase their skills or brainstorm ideas together. Additionally, our studio provides an incredible space for hosting events, whether it’s an artist talk, a workshop, or something entirely unique. If you have an idea, speak to Alex, and we’ll work with you to bring it to life.

    You will given a Fob to TKE Studios and will be welcomed any time you want to visit.

    Victoria House: This is a home and your private studio and not an event space. There will however be a final show in your studios, this will be invigilated and the public will not be allowed to enter private areas in the house.

Resources & Facilities

  • Our shared library at TKE Studios operates on an honesty policy, reflecting our trust in everyone to respect and care for the books. Feel free to borrow books as needed, but please return them once you're done so others can enjoy them too. We kindly ask that books remain within the building to ensure they’re accessible to everyone. We are working on creating a catalogue for easy access to titles.

  • A Canon G4010 printer-scanner is available for use and can be found on the network. The device is located in Alex's office, so please ensure you are mindful of her workspace when accessing it.

    The Wi-Fi network is called "Foundation," and the password is "TreeSpeakerApple,".

    There is also a colour laser jet printer in TEARS section you can use too

  • The repository, located in the undercroft, is a shared resource designed to foster reuse. This is the place to leave unwanted items that might be useful to others and to pick up anything you find inspiring or practical. Please keep it tidy and avoid leaving items that are clearly unusable, such as empty paint tubes or rubbish you’d prefer not to dispose of yourself.

Policies on Artwork

  • Please note that we cannot guarantee sale of your artworks but we will do our best to promote them. To encourage sales you would work with us to provide social media content to promote your work.

    Exhibition sales: For exhibited work the Tracey Emin Foundation takes 50% and the artist takes 50%

    To enable sales, it is hoped that you agree to a discretionary discount to be offered. Your intentions will be confirmed before the exhibition opening and we can discuss discounts with you

    Sales are made directly to the Foundation ( unless otherwise agreed with the artist in advance) and the Foundation agrees to pay you within 21 days of receiving the full amount.

    If a buyer wishes to purchase work over a period of time, this will be made in mutual agreement between the artist and the Foundation.

    All sales will place the buyer as responsible for shipping costs. The Foundation can work with the buyer to organise.

    The artist should supply the buyer with appropriate documentation as required such as proof of authenticity and ensuring work is signed.

  • It is our hope and ambition that the work you create at Victoria House is displayed in an exhibition at the end of the Residency and as such we would prefer if you reserve the work you create here for this purpose.

    Each case will be different, but there may be a time that you want to privately sell work produced at Victoria House that will not be part of the exhibition. Depending on each situation, this could be possible but please talk to us before you agree anything, we would expect a percentage of the sale to go towards the Foundation

  • The 50% commission rate directly gets paid back to the Foundation and it helps us to support future artists to participate.

    It supports the running of the residency programme, covers exhibition installation costs, marketing, invigilation costs, opening reception, living expenses amongst many other other things.