Indigenous Languages creative arts residency

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, language is a vessel of cultural knowledge, connecting communities to Country, ancestors, and traditions. The Indigenous languages creative arts residencies at State Library of Queensland provide a platform to celebrate, revitalise, and innovate First Nations languages by supporting both emerging and established Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives. These residencies empower artists to amplify language through contemporary and cultural expression.

Participants are given the time, space, and resources to create new work inspired by the State Library’s Indigenous language collections, contributing meaningfully to the revival and preservation of Queensland’s First Nations languages.

Open to creatives from all disciplines including writers, dancers, musicians, designers, and digital artists—the residency supports the development of language-based projects that reflect both personal expression and community connection. Participants will engage in language and cultural research, access rich collections, and produce meaningful creative work. The residency supports both creative freedom and cultural responsibility in equal measure. Applications are welcome from individuals and collaborative groups.

This program is funded through the Commonwealth Indigenous Languages and Arts (ILA) program. 

Successful applicants will receive:  

• $8,000 stipend to support your project, time, and materials
• 1:1 research support from State Library's expert team
• Access to creative spaces including The Edge digital lab and design tools
• Networking & showcasing opportunities at public events like Night by the Fire
• A chance to bring your language to life through art, performance, or storytelling 

Who can apply and what are we looking for? 

This opportunity is for: 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives
• With a cultural connection to a Queensland Indigenous language
• Ready to explore, celebrate or share that language through art
• Applicants don’t need to live in Brisbane, as our hybrid model supports working onsite, at home, in studio, or on Country.
• Your project idea should:
  • Centre on First Nations language revitalisation
  • Show creativity and potential for community or cultural impact
  • Engage meaningfully with State Library collections
  • Inspire others through performance, exhibition, digital works, or public engagement 

Important details 

Applications for Round 1 and Round 2 in 2025 have now closed. The outcome of Round 2 applications will be announced in early September 2025. 

Meet the 2025 Round One Residents

State Library is proud to announce the first recipients of the Indigenous languages creative arts residency. The inaugural residents have been selected for their language-rich, culturally grounded projects that reflect deep respect for community, Country, and intergenerational knowledge sharing. The round one, 2025 recipients are Georgia Corowa, Boneta-Marie Mabo, and Dean Tyson. 

Read more about their projects. 

Need help or have questions?

We’re here to help. Email indigenousLanguages@slq.qld.gov.au