6 – 12th July 2024, Stornoway – Stornoway, £875
Orientated around the ‘hub’ of the Shiant Isles*, ‘Muir is Tìr’ will explore the seaways and islands of the remoter corners of the Isle of Lewis, taking a creative approach to ocean adventuring and using the boat as both vehicle and research arena, finding anchorages along the way.
The expedition will focus on the role and relevance of oral knowledge in the Anthropocene as a tool for unlocking and understanding the archipelago, examining the use of mnemonics, placenames, memory mapping, ocean lore and traditional skills to guide us. There will be opportunities for time ashore foraging for local foods and visiting abandoned or cleared villages, as well as learning more about the historical, cultural and supernatural narratives of the Outer Hebrides including the fabled ‘Na Fir Ghorma – Blue Men of the Minch’
Fata Morgana, Shiant Isles. Photo Jon Macleod.
The Residency is run in partnership with An Lanntair and will be led by Project Curator, artist and islander Jon Macleod. ‘Muir is Tìr’ is based on the Gaelic sea-lore book of the same name by George Macleod.
Working closely together learning to sail as well as spending time ashore the residency offers shared experience and collaboration whilst also allowing time for reflection, observation and contemplation in a unique and dynamic environment.
The residency is multi-artform and open to all Creative practitioners
*An Lanntair can offer letters of support for selected participants seeking funding possibilities
** A Library that complements and gives context to the residency will be available
*** Exhibitions/Performances at An Lanntair are possible in consultation with the curatorial team
Further details about the Muir is Tìr – Land and Sea residency
Residency contribution
The trip fee of £875 covers the cost of the boat, crew, all equipment and training you’ll need onboard, as well as your food and a cosy bunk onboard, and a guided day on land with local guides. Not included is your travel to and from the start/end points of the voyage and any expenses ashore, although these tend to be very limited out in the wilds!
Application Process
The residency is open to emerging, mid-career and established artists, photographers, filmmakers, writers, musicians and craft makers, etc.
Applicants should submit a brief CV and no more than 5 images (or other supporting documentation such as video, sound etc.) as an emailed PDF with images, and/or links as suits, stating why you would like to take part in this residency.
Applications should be sent to jon@anlanntair.com and info@sailbritain.org, subject – Muir is Tir Residency Application + [your name]
The successful applicants’ work may be able to be shown at An Lanntair. This is to be arranged between the residency organisers and the successful applicants.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is 1st April 2024, but applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
A panel from An Lanntair and Sail Britain will select the successful applicants. All applicants will receive a reply within 7 days of the decision deadline.
