The British School at Rome (BSR), in partnership with the Linbury Trust, is delighted to offer the Sainsbury Scholarship—a transformative six-month residency in Rome, running from 7 January to 30 June 2026. This opportunity is open to an exceptional early-career artist working in any medium. This award is specifically intended to support visual artists from a Black background, including those from Black African, Caribbean, and Black British communities, who remain underrepresented both in the arts and at the BSR.
When is the Application Deadline:
Monday, 8 September 2025 at 11:59 PM (Rome time)
🏛️ Tell Me About The Award:
The Sainsbury Scholarship for Fine Arts 2026 is a six-month, fully funded residency at the British School at Rome (BSR). In partnership with the Linbury Trust, this program is dedicated to empowering early-career Black visual artists. The residency runs from 7 January to 30 June 2026, offering creative space, financial support, and cultural engagement in the heart of Rome.
Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.
Read Also:
- Access Bank Entry Level Recruitment (Graduate Trainee Program) 2025 for Nigerians
- Apply for the Fully Funded MEST AI Startup Program 2026 for Africans
- Apply for the 2025 NAPEP Development Program: Empowering Nigerians Through Skills, Grants & Employment
- CPN Certified Digital Skill Trainer Development Program for Nigerians (July 2025)
🎨 Which Fields are Eligible?
Visual arts, including but not limited to:
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Digital media
- Performance
- Installation
- Mixed media
📌 Type:
Residency / Scholarship for Visual Artists
👤 Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a British national or have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
- Self-identify as Black, including Black African, Caribbean, or Black British
- Have fewer than 10 years of professional experience as a practicing visual artist
✅ How Are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Artistic quality and originality
- Potential for development through the residency
- Relevance to the program’s aim of supporting underrepresented artists
Shortlisted applicants will likely be reviewed by a selection panel and may be contacted for additional materials or interview.
🌍 Which Countries Are Eligible?
Open to UK nationals or UK residents (living in the UK for at least 3 years)
📍 Where Will the Award Be Taken?
At the British School at Rome, Italy
🔢 How Many Awards?
One (1) Sainsbury Scholarship will be awarded
🎁 What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Monthly grant of £1,500 for 6 months
- £500 travel grant (to/from Rome)
- £400 grant for visa and artwork transport
- Full board and accommodation in a studio at BSR
- Access to BSR facilities and networks
- Participation in Open Studios and public events in Rome
⏳ How Long Will the Award Last?
Six months – from 7 January to 30 June 2026
✍️ How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted via SlideRoom at:
👉 https://bsrome.slideroom.com
🔗 Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
👉 https://bsr.ac.uk/call-for-applications-the-sainsbury-scholarship-for-fine-arts-2026-six-months/
