Applications open for host organisations
The Dr Gavin Wallace Fellowship was established to honour a Creative Scotland colleague who dedicated his entire professional life to helping writers and literature organisations in Scotland.
Following the sad loss of Dr Wallace in 2013, Creative Scotland established an annual Fellowship in his name to honour his memory and commemorate and continue his good work.
This fund supports an arts or public sector organisation based in Scotland to host the year-long Dr Gavin Wallace Fellowship. The successful host organisation will then subsequently recruit a Writing Fellow.
The Dr Gavin Wallace Fellowship is supported by the National Lottery through Creative Scotland.
About the Programme
The Fellowship is intended to support mid-career and established writers, allowing a writer time to create work rather than deliver creative workshops or other project-based activities.
Please note that the Gavin Wallace Fellowship is to allow for a writer to have a supported year writing in the genre in which they can already demonstrate a track record. It is not designed to allow writers to pivot into new forms.
Organisations applying to host will suggest a broad theme for the Fellowship which should be related to their own work. We’re keen to encourage applications from organisations which work in any art form, or work in other parts of the public sector, providing they can show:
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An established commitment to the arts in Scotland
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An understanding of the development needs of writers and a willingness to support a writer throughout their Fellowship
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A knowledge of the wider literature sector in Scotland
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A clear rationale as to why hosting the Fellowship in 2025 would be beneficial to the organisation’s own work.
We are particularly interested in receiving applications from organisations which:
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Can demonstrate a commitment to diversifying the arts in Scotland and/or
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Consider access requirements through an openness to working remotely and digitally with the writing fellow, where required or appropriate.
We also ask the host organisation to confirm that there will be an employee available who can act as point of contact and support for the writer throughout the Fellowship.
Eligibility
We will accept applications from arts, screen and creative organisations which are based in Scotland. We are also happy to accept applications from organisations working in other parts of the public sector that can meet the criteria (particularly around supporting the developmental needs of the writer).
Organisations already in receipt of Regular Funding from Creative Scotland can apply but should discuss any intention to apply with their Lead Officer in the first instance. Applications will be required to demonstrate why the proposed activity is additional to their existing Funding Agreement and how the activity enhances current and future plans.
Previous hosts of the Dr Gavin Wallace Fellowship can now reapply, but will not be prioritised.
Budget available
One award of £29,000 is available. The award is to be divided into a £24,000 stipend for the successful writer, and £5,000 to the host organisation to support the development and delivery of project plans.
Timeline
Host Organisation Applications open: 11 September 2024
Deadline: Tuesday 29 October 2024
We are aiming to confirm the selected host organisation by Monday 25 November 2024.
Fellowship
Following appointment of the host, we would expect the selected organisation to manage the advertising and recruitment process for the Fellowship. We encourage you to include a representative of Creative Scotland in your shortlisting and interview panel. We expect the position to be appointed and ready to begin the Fellowship by no later than end February 2025.
How to Apply
Download the guidance documents and application form, and submit the application form, by the deadline, to the email address detailed in the form.