Apply for a studio

Thanks for your interest in an ACAVA studio.

This application helps us understand your practice and match you with the right space. We’re interested in all kinds of artists and creative businesses, especially those underrepresented in the sector.

If you’re not ready to apply, you can read our FAQs below or ask a question here.

About you

Your full name

Your date of birth

Your gender

Your postcode

Your email address

Your phone number

Link to your Website/Instagram/Facebook/Other (If you don’t have an online portfolio, please email availablestudios@acava.org up to 6 images of your pieces)

Your preferences

We have studios in Essex, London and Stoke-on-Trent. Please choose a maximum of three buildings from the list below. If you choose more than three, only the first three choices will be considered for this application. Learn more about our various buildings and view them in a map here.

Your practice

Tell us a bit about your art practice or creative business. What do you make or do? What materials or processes do you use? Do you share your creativity through workshops or other ways? You don’t need to write an essay, a few clear sentences (up to 150 words) is great.

Equality and diversity

ACAVA is committed to equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion and we are keen to address imbalances in our communities. We encourage applications from all races, religions, genders, countries of origin and sexual orientations. We particularly encourage applications from disabled people and those from ethnic minorities backgrounds as these groups are underrepresented.

The Equality Act 2010 defines a person as disabled if they have a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term negative effect on their ability to do normal daily activities. The definition automatically applies to those diagnosed with cancer, HIV infection or multiple sclerosis. Do you consider yourself to have a disability according to the above definition?

Yes No Prefer not to say

Last step

If you selected ‘Other’ in the previous question, please specify below:

I’d like to sign up to ACAVA’s newsletter I’d like to hear when new studios become available

Access: If you need help filling in this form, or would prefer to apply in another format, contact availablestudios@acava.org

Studios FAQs

How can I get in touch about available studios?

If you have a question about available studios or would like to speak to the studio allocations manager, please email availablestudios (at) acava (dot) org or complete our studio enquiry form.

How do I get updates about new available studios?

Subscribe to our mailing list here.

How do I apply for an available studio?

The first step in applying for a studio is to complete a studio application form. When we have assessed the form, you will be invited to view the studio.

How quickly can I expect to receive a response?

We aim to respond to all enquiries within two working days.

How can I arrange a viewing?

The first step in applying for a studio is to complete a studio application form. When we have assessed the form, you will be invited to view available studios in the buildings you have selected.

No fees are required from you at this time. Before allocating studios, ACAVA staff will assess applications against our criteria and may contact you if they have additional questions about your application or practice.

Who makes decisions on studio allocation?

Decisions are at the sole discretion of ACAVA staff. As we receive large numbers of applications for our studios, we are not able to discuss individual decisions with unsuccessful applicants.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes, we require a deposit which is usually equal to one month's total monthly fees, plus a £50 key deposit for every single occupancy.

What does the license fee include?

The licence fee covers only your studio space, utilities (e.g. electricity) are extra. These charges are combined in a monthly direct debit.

Is there a joining fee?

There is a one-off £100 onboarding fee, which also applies to people moving between ACAVA studios.

I was allocated a studio. When can I move in?

We aim for new joiners to start at the beginning of the month.

Is there an end date to my studio license?

Studio licences are rolling month-to-month contracts, where either party can give two months notice to vacate.

Is it possible to license a studio for short term use?

Yes, we have spaces available for short-term hire. Visit the Hire our spaces page to find out more.