What is TEAR?

 The Tracey Emin Artist Residency (TEAR) is a free, studio-based art school programme that encourages the development of studio practice alongside a community of professional artists at TKE Studios.  ​

Initially with set projects devised by Tracey Emin, Director, Elissa Cray and a host of guest artists, you will explore, develop and question artistic practices. ​

Visits from key figures such as gallery directors, curators, artists, accountants, framers, collectors, art historians will shape how you develop your studio work over the following year with ongoing mentorship from Tracey and opportunities to exhibit to far-reaching audiences.

The TEAR programme is similar in level to a Masters degree programme but with no formal qualification. For the next cohort  will be selecting 8 applicants from people worldwide.

Who Can Apply?

Our TEAR 2027 cohort will be painters, in particular people who work directly with physical materials, it would not be suitable for painters who rely on digital technologies.

Applicants should be over 21 and we have no upper age limit, we positively welcome applications from older artists

We particularly encourage applications from disabled people and people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, as these groups are currently under-represented in the cultural sector.

You do not need any prior qualifications, nor do you need to have studied at art school previously. We equally welcome those who already have degrees, master's degrees, etc. – although you must have finished your studies before April 2027.

We expect you to have a good knowledge of contemporary and historical art references.

Overall, we are looking for talented, determined artists who are:

  • Motivated​

  • Determined

  • Ready to accept and LISTEN to critique

  • Ready to act on critique and push themselves

  • Not afraid to participate

  • Able to express own thoughts and opinions ​

  • Able to contribute to a group, inside and outside the studio

  • Generous to others and talk in all discussions.​

Practical Requirements.

  • 2027 with applications starting summer 2026

    • You must be able to live and work in the UK

    • The programme is non-accredited, meaning that we are unable to sponsor non-UK applicants for a student visa - please read about visa options HERE

    • You must be able to move to Margate for the start of the programme in early April 2025 and live here until July 2026.

  • The programme will start early April 2025 and continue until July 2026.  You will need to live locally in Margate / close surrounding towns for this period.

    Please note: The programme covers free studio access and free tuition - it does NOT cover accommodation costs.

  • This is an estimation of how much accommodation currently is within Margate:

    Shared Room:  Expect to pay approx £500- £850 a month, usually with bills included.

    1 bed flat:  Expect to pay approx £750 - £1000 – plus bills

    2 bed flat:  Expect to pay approx £900 - £1200 plus bills

    3, 4, 5 bed houses  - Expect to pay £1300 - £2000+ plus bills

    If selected, we will discuss your individual needs, put you in touch with other TEARS who might be looking to share, we may also know of accommodation that is not advertised. We can also advise you on good locations etc

  • Margate is generally not too expensive to live in. There are a lot of free things to do in the town, and people walk or cycle everywhere. We also have a kitchen at the studio for you to cook in, so you don’t need to eat out. There will be group studio meals, and tea, coffee, and some snacks will be provided at the studios. The studios are warm and open 24 hours a day, and of course, you will spend most of your time at the studios.

  • For set projects, we will provide you with the majority of materials.

    We often receive donations of materials that we share, giving priority to people who need them the most.

    You will buy your own extra paint, canvas, stretcher bars, etc, as needed.

    We can offer a discount at our local art store, Lovelys

  • We provide your train fares and arrange tickets to exhibitions.

  • If needed, you can engage in part-time work from Thursdays to Sundays. There are many opportunities for part-time work in Margate. The emphasis is on Part-Time Work, though—TEAR is your priority, and we expect a high level of dedication.

    You must not take any work on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Wednesdays.

  • There will be opportunities throughout the year for you to generate money through your own creativity and artwork. 

  • At the start of the programme, we will give you set dates for when you can take holidays.

    You will be given time for a summer break, Christmas break and Easter break (up to 10 weeks in total)

    The studios should be open during this time for those not wishing to take a break.

    We do not allow you to take a holiday outside the set break times. You must also not leave early and always return on time.

  • We take a 10% commission on any work sold in an exhibition at TKE Studios. This commission goes directly back to the charity The Tracey Emin Foundation and assists us with exhibition production costs.

    We also ask if you would consider donating one piece of artwork at the end of TEAR for the Tracey Emin Foundation Collection for archive and future exhibitions.