Completing The Drawing Year is a major milestone, but for many alumni, it’s also the beginning of an exciting new chapter. At the School, we’re proud to offer a growing number of opportunities designed to support our graduates as they navigate the next steps in their creative careers.
Among the most significant of these is our residency programme. Residencies offer artists dedicated time and space to focus on their practice in unique and often remote settings. From studios in the UK to international residencies further afield, each location offers a distinct context for reflection, exploration, and production. These residencies are more than just a change of scene—they’re a chance to step away from day-to-day pressures, engage deeply with new environments, and reimagine your work in response.
Open primarily to The Drawing Year alumni and faculty (in some instances open to Scottish and International artists, and graduates of the Online Development Drawing Year), the School’s residencies have become a vital part of our wider commitment to supporting drawing in contemporary practice. Whether you're looking to develop a new body of work, reconnect with observational drawing, or simply take time to think, these residencies offer a rare and valuable opportunity.
In addition to residencies, the Christie’s Award (offered in partnership with Christie’s) is presented annually to a recent Drawing Year graduate. The award supports an artist in the early stages of their career, helping them to create new work and continue developing their practice after the programme ends. It reflects the School’s belief that drawing is not only a foundational skill but a serious, lifelong artistic discipline deserving of investment and visibility.
Beyond formal residencies and awards, the School offers a number of other avenues of support. Alumni are invited to apply for our Tutor Training Programme, which equips graduates with the skills and experience needed to pursue careers in arts education. The School also offers discounted access to short courses, making it easier for alumni to remain engaged with the School’s teaching, studios and peer networks.
Our exhibitions programme offers alumni a platform to present and share new work publicly. Our alumni network keeps past students connected through regular updates and shared opportunities. Opportunities range from commissions and studio spaces to funding and collaborative projects.
Together, these opportunities extend the spirit of The Drawing Year beyond the classroom. They help graduates maintain momentum, connect with peers and mentors, and continue to build lives shaped by observation, enquiry and making.