The next TEAR cohort runs from April 2027 to July 2028 (15 months).

The programme takes place at TKE Studios in Margate, UK. Residents are expected to live locally in Margate or nearby towns for the full duration of the programme.

TEAR is for painters working directly with physical materials.

Applicants must:

• Be aged 21 or over (no upper age limit)

• Be able to live and work in the UK for the full programme

• Have completed any current formal study before April 2027

• Demonstrate engagement with contemporary and historical art

No formal qualifications are required.

Applicants must not already have commercial gallery representation.

TEAR is intensive and requires sustained commitment, regular attendance and active participation within a shared studio environment.

TEAR is a non-accredited programme and cannot sponsor visas.

International applicants must already be eligible to live and work in the UK for the duration of the programme. This may include routes such as the Global Talent Visa (Exceptional Promise) or another appropriate visa category. More information can be found here.

You do not need to hold a visa before applying. Visa applications are only made if you are offered a place.

Applicants will be asked to demonstrate eligibility for the Global Talent route before interview stage.

Yes. Participation in TEAR is free.

TEAR provides:

• Studio space at TKE Studios

• Mentorship, projects and critique

• Visiting speakers and professional insight

• The majority of materials for set projects

• Group trips to London exhibitions, including travel and tickets

• Tea, coffee and some studio snacks

• Access to shared studio kitchen facilities

• 24 hour studio access

We also receive donated materials which are shared among residents where possible, and residents can access a discount at the local art shop, Lovelys.

TEAR does not cover accommodation costs. Residents are responsible for arranging and paying for their own rent and living expenses.

Approximate accommodation costs in Margate:

• Shared room: £500–£850 per month (often bills included)

• One bedroom flat: £750–£1000 per month, plus bills

• Two bedroom flat: £900–£1200 per month, plus bills

• Larger houses (3–5 bedrooms): £1300–£2000+ per month, plus bills

If selected, we will discuss housing needs, help connect residents who may wish to share accommodation, and can advise on suitable areas to live. We may also be aware of accommodation that is not publicly advertised.

Margate is generally considered affordable compared to many UK cities. Many residents walk or cycle locally, and there are numerous free cultural activities.

A kitchen is available at the studios for preparing meals, and group studio meals take place at points during the programme.

Yes, part time work is permitted Thursday to Sunday only.

Residents must not undertake employment on Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays, as these days are reserved for TEAR activities and studio engagement. The programme must remain your primary commitment.

There may also be opportunities during the year to generate income through your own creative work.

Residents receive scheduled breaks across the programme, including:

• Summer break

• Christmas break

• Easter break

These breaks total up to 10 weeks across the 15 months.

Holidays may only be taken during these designated periods. Residents must not leave early or return late.

Studios remain open during breaks for residents who wish to continue working.

The majority of materials for set projects are provided.

Residents are responsible for purchasing additional materials required for their individual work, such as paint, canvas or stretcher bars.

Donated materials are shared where available, with priority given to those who need them most.

Yes. TEAR includes opportunities to exhibit work during the programme. The Foundation takes a 10% commission on works sold in exhibitions at TKE Studios, which supports exhibition production and future programme activity. Residents are also asked to consider donating one artwork to the Foundation Collection at the end of the programme to support the archive and future exhibitions.

Studios are warm, shared working spaces open 24 hours a day. Residents are expected to spend significant time in the studio and to contribute actively to the shared working environment through discussion, critique and participation.

Further details about applications can be found on the How to Apply page.