Northumbria is delighted to be part of the British Council’s Venice Fellowship Programme. Two fellowships will be awarded from Northumbria University to receive funding to spend a month in Venice during the world’s most important art and architecture biennales.
The following departments will be supporting the 2026 fellowships:
- Department of Architecture + Built Environment
- Northumbria School of Design, Arts & Creative Industries
We are proud to have partnered with the British Council to be part of the Venice Fellowships Programme, a scheme which activates and enriches world-renowned exhibitions at the Venice Biennale. The Fellowships Programme is a key part of the British Council’s presence in Venice, supporting the exhibition programme as well as being a platform for the development of new creative careers and future leaders. The Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for emerging creatives from Northumbria to represent the UK on an international level whilst broadening their perspective, making connections and developing their creative practice.
The Fellowships Programme enables participants to spend a month in Venice as exhibition ambassadors at the British Pavilion, enriching and activating the British Council’s exhibition programme. They will engage through their practice with visiting members of the public and expand the impact of the show. Alongside this practical residency, Fellows have the opportunity to develop their own research and practice and use the Biennale as a platform for creative and professional development. Through these contributions, Fellows elevate the Pavilion to an important reference point for universities and creative organisations around the world.
Funding
Fellows receive a grant of £3300 to help support the cost of travel, accommodation and living costs.
Eligibility
The fellowship programme will be open to Early Career Researchers and PhD students. Applicants should discuss their proposals with their line manager or PGR Lead.
Please note: places are exceptionally limited and we anticipate that competition will be strong. The University would welcome applications from all backgrounds, students are asked to take the time to submit serious (rather than speculative or rushed) applications and discuss with relevant Department Leads.
Please also read the British Council requirements set out in their guide (available below).
Application Process and Key Dates
1. Download the application form template.
2. Complete the application form.
3. Submit your application via email to: james.leggott@northumbria.ac.uk
This fellowship scheme has been especially developed for Early Career Researchers + PhD students.
Deadline: 11:59 pm, 28 November 2025.
Please note: places are exceptionally limited and we anticipate that competition will be strong. The University would welcome applications from all backgrounds, applicants are asked to take the time to submit serious (rather than speculative or rushed) applications and discuss with relevant Head of School.
In the interest of fairness, late applications will not be accepted. Emails and submissions received after the deadline will not be considered.
Selection
A two-stage selection process will be carried out. Up to two applicants will be shortlisted and put forward to the British Council. All applicants will be informed as to whether or not their application was shortlisted.
The British Council will review the shortlisted applications and notify the successful candidates in January 2026
Pre-Fellowship Training
Successful applicants will receive full training and mentorship by the British Council prior to beginning their Fellowship. This will include participating in 15 hours of compulsory online training and collaborative workshops to know more about Venice, La Biennale and British Pavilion exhibition content. It also provides a chance to network and meet others in the cohort of Fellows with which you will be working during your time in Venice.
Through their training and experience in supporting the exhibition at the British Pavilion, Fellows learn techniques for enhancing a visitor’s understanding and expanding their perspectives on the show. The stewarding experience provides them with valuable work experience and confidence in contributing to a gallery setting.
Post-Fellowship Expectations
After the Fellowship, fellows that have been supported will be expected to engage with the cultural events of the University to showcase their experience and research work at a number of events.
Further Information
Please read the Venice Fellowship Programme Guide for detailed information about the programme and to download the application form template. General information about the Venice Fellowship is available on the British Council’s website.
Candidates are encouraged to join an information session held by the British Council before submitting an application.
Option 1 – Monday 20 October 2025, 12-1pm BST. Register here: Teams link
Option 2 – Wednesday 19 November 2025, 12-1pm GMT. Register here: Teams link
The session will cover:
1. Overview of the 2026 Fellowships Programme Application Guidelines.
2. Experiences from previous Fellows.
3. Support guidance for completing the 2026 application form.
Northumbria will not receive a recording. Please attend if you would like to receive further information.
Contacts
Department/School Leads:
Architecture and Built Environment - ruth.dalton@northumbria.ac.uk
Design, Arts and Creative Industries – james.leggott@northumbria.ac.uk
venicefellowships@britishcouncil.org for general questions about the Fellowship.
