We are pleased to take part in a new programme designed to support artists affected by conflict from Lebanon, Yemen, Palestine and Ukraine through residencies at leading cultural institutions across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Organised by British Council in partnership with Arts Council England, Creative Scotland and Arts Council of Wales/Wales Arts International, the programme brings nine artists and cultural professionals to arts organisations renowned for their expertise in supporting artists across diverse art forms, from contemporary art to literature and film. Each residency lasts between four and twelve weeks, and is tailored to meet the specific requirements of both the host organisation and the visiting creative professional. In addition to Cove Park, the other host organisations include: ACME Studios, Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Delfina Foundation, Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop, Literature Wales/Tŷ Newydd, Moniack Mhor, Pier Arts Centre, and Ulster University/Belfast Film Festival.

Cove Park will welcome Lebanese artist Yasmine Rifaii for a four-week residency in October 2025.

This initiative builds upon Scotland – Ukraine Arts Residencies, a successful pilot project held in Scotland in 2023 during the UK/Ukraine Season of Culture, in which we hosted Ukrainian cultural manager, theatre producer, and curator Veronika Skliarova.