AO HOU
Blue Oyster is calling for expressions of interest for AO HOU!
AO HOU is a new gallery-based Studio Residency and Group Exhibition project for 3 Ōtepoti based artists, who have graduated in 2025 or will graduate in 2026. We are looking for dedicated artists with vibrant practices!
Bridging the gap between school and life post-study, AO HOU is all about supporting the development of new practices. This opportunity provides dedicated time, space and financial contribution to support the development of new work in a small group setting. The Studio Residency is intended to be a starting point. Exhibition content will develop in relation with the participating artists, with curatorial support from staff members during the residency and in the lead up to the Group Exhibition, held in Blue Oyster’s Pearl Gallery.
Studio Residency:
All throughout January 2027 our gallery space will be morphed into a shared studio. Each artist will receive:
4 weeks studio space in Blue Oyster, shared with 2 other AO HOU artists
$500.00 weekly stipend for 4 weeks
$500.00 contribution to materials
Curatorial support
A Group Exhibition:
In early July, Blue Oyster will host an exhibition by AO HOU artists! The exhibition will be developed in collaboration with the resident artists and Blue Oyster. Each artist will receive:
a combined artist fee and materials contribution of at least $1,100.00
curatorial and install support during the exhibition
Timeline:
Residency:
Begins: Monday 11th January 2027
Public open studio event: Friday 4th February 2027
Ends: Saturday 5th February 2027
Exhibition:
Install: Thursday 1st & Friday 2nd June 2027
Duration: Saturday 12th June - Saturday 4th September 2027
Deinstall: Monday 6th September & Tuesday 7th September 2027
Important information!
The gallery itself is wheelchair accessible, however our bathroom is not.
This opportunity open to graduates from any tertiary education provider, including but not limited to: Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, Te Kura Matatini o Otago (Otago Polytechnic), Ōtakou Whakaihu Waka (Otago University).
The Studio Residency provides shared studio space. Accommodation is not provided. For this reason, the opportunity will be most suited to locally based applicants.
To apply:
Please fill in our application form - you can find it here or copy this link into your browser: https://forms.gle/jrvCHs66wnbbm1ME8
The deadline for applications is Monday the 30th November 2026
If you would prefer to email - please send your EOI to director@bueoyster.org.nz by Monday 30th of November. In a single PDF, please include the following information:
5 - 7 images of your work
A short biography (100 words max)
A description of your practice (500 words max)
Confirmation you are available for all the dates listed above.
Due to unavailability of staffing, we are unable to accept hui or zui submissions.
All expressions of interest are assessed by the Director. All applicants are considered as long as they meet the requirements of; being based in Ōtepoti and having graduated in 2025 or will graduate in 2026.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email Piupiu Maya Turei (director) - director@blueoyster.org.nz
All applicants will be notified of the outcome by Monday 7th of December 2026.