The Carousel Institute of Arts (C.I.A.)
Woolgathering Residency
The Woolgathering Residency on the West Coast of Wales is waiting for you.
This is a residency with a difference, hosted and preformed by the (C.I.A.) ringmasters, from their base near Harlech, in Eryri. We pride ourselves on a collaborative, experimental, and engaging approach that draws inspiration from the carnivalesque, the absurd, and physical performative actions. With a focus on contemporary art practices and theory, we foster an environment that encourages participants to push the boundaries of their creative thinking through actions, where no idea is too stupid.
Accommodation during your intensive, and immersive experience is in Ysgoldy - the School House, where we have space for four artists, and a choice of either the Queen’s Room (single), or the Monster Room (single), or the Bunk Room (twin).
Apply with an outline of why you would want to attend the Woolgathering Residency, what you have to offer, the work you would like to explore, and some images of your current work. Your fee includes activities within the surrounding area, some transport, guidance and discussions, your accommodation at Ysgoldy, and access to the studio, woodland and gardens.
Residencies will run throughout the year, and you are welcome to apply as an individual, or as a group of artists.
Check out our Any Questions..? page for information about the residency, and the cost ---> HERE
If you need more information, or to apply, drop us an email through the contact link below.
Our philosophy is to have fun, play and experiment.
Come and join us!








Research and Discussion
We find that research and discussion are the most important elements of our process.
We will visit local areas of interest, where we will undertake exercises designed to provoke, and later sit around the fire
discussing our experiences.

Experimentation
No idea is too stupid - you will spend time playing with your own ideas and working together to find new ways of working and thinking.

Collaboration
We will work together to create artworks that respond to the local environment, history and landscape.
Often this will involve developing performance, costume, photograph or film.