The Paul Mellon Centre is offering small grants of up to £2,000 to individuals in the UK for scholarly work on British art and architecture. This initiative aims to deepen knowledge and promote inclusivity within the field, particularly welcoming applications from underrepresented groups in UK humanities academia. The funding supports activities crucial for producing scholarly works, such as image licensing, photography, and graphic creation.
Key Takeaways
- Grants up to £2,000 available for scholarly work on British art and architecture.
- Deadline for applications is September 30, 2025.
- Focus on expanding knowledge and encouraging underrepresented voices.
- Funding supports costs for image licensing, photography, and graphics.
- Written work must be scheduled for publication no later than two years from January 2026.
Programme Scope And Eligibility
The Author Small Grants Programme supports research, education, and knowledge sharing in British art and architectural history, covering periods from the medieval era to the present. While the focus is on art made in Britain or by British artists, the program adopts a broad perspective on British art studies, embracing diverse topics and contexts related to Britain’s artistic and cultural histories. Projects involving photography, performance, film, and digital media are eligible if they have a clear connection to British art studies.
However, the program does not fund field archaeology, contemporary architectural practice, or performing arts. Organizations seeking support for exhibition catalogues should explore the Exhibition Publication Grant, and individuals requiring more than £2,000 should apply for the Author Grant (Large). Each individual is limited to one publication grant application per round.
Application And Selection Criteria
Applications must ensure that any article submissions have been accepted by a journal prior to submission. The written work should be slated for publication no earlier than the end of 2025 and no later than two years from January 2026. Given the anticipated high volume of strong applications, funding decisions will be based on several factors. These include the academic rigor and originality of the proposed work, its potential for long-term scholarly contribution, and its relevance to current events or opportunities. Special consideration will be given to research that addresses previously unsupported contexts or communities. The project’s feasibility, the demonstrated need for funding, and its potential to enhance inclusivity and impact within the field will also be evaluated.
Successful applicants are required to submit a copy of their publication to the Paul Mellon Centre upon release and ensure proper acknowledgment of the PMC in the published work, adhering to provided guidelines.
