Call for artists: URGENCIES (2027)

The call for URGENCIES (2027) is now live!

URGENCIES (2027) is the fifth instalment of a biennial group exhibition at CCA Derry~Londonderry, which will take place from 23 January–13 March 2027. This exhibition is selected from an open call, seeking to take the temperature of what artists working today consider to be urgent, with each instalment charting shifting concerns and generations of artists over time.

This call seeks artists in the earlier stages of their careers based in Northern Ireland or with a connection to the region, who address urgencies through their work, to apply. The artworks will be selected by CCA’s Director, Catherine Hemelryk and artist Louise Wallace. Applications can consist of existing work or proposals for unrealised work.

Each selected artist will receive an exhibition fee, transport and in the case of unrealised works, a modest production budget. CCA will support artists curatorially and help connect artists looking to work with community groups at CCA or offsite.

Applications should demonstrate how the work is urgent and relates to CCA in this location in Derry~Londonderry at this time in history. Consider including information on the presentation of the work, equipment supplied or required and - for unrealised works, performances and pieces working with communities - include practical considerations and outline costs.

Due to the expected high number of applicants, CCA unfortunately cannot offer feedback on unsuccessful applications.

To apply please complete the application form*, Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form and email it with a current CV to info@ccadld.org using the subject heading URGENCIES (2027) APPLICATION + YOUR NAME by 1 September 2026, 23:59pm, or by post to:

Christian Donaghey, Gallery Administrator
CCA Derry~Londonderry, 10–12 Artillery Street, Derry~Londonderry, BT48 6RG, Northern Ireland

Application Form Word doc | PDF
Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form Word doc | PDF

* Artists with access requirements applying to CCA opportunities are warmly invited to email info@ccadld.org to let us know of any access requirements you may have to reduce barriers in making your application.

URGENCIES Archive:

URGENCIES (2025)
Artists: Hannah Casey-Brogan, Niall McLaughlin, Cara Donaghey, Kelly Ewing, Emily Waszak, Katrina Cobain, Leah Corbett, Aidan O’Neill, Sgàire Wood, James Mooney/Alex Pollock/Rodhlann Mossop/Sadhbh Sheehan
Selectors: Jennifer Trouton & Catherine Hemelryk
ccadld.org/exhibitions/urgencies-2025

URGENCIES (2023)
Artists: Chloe Austin, Husk Bennett, Daniel Coleman, Sarah Diver Lang, DreamBean, Miach Malachy, Julie Lovett, Richard Magee, Silvia Mandic, Yasmine Robinson.
Selectors: Joy Gerrard & Catherine Hemelryk
ccadld.org/exhibitions/urgencies-2023

URGENCIES (2021)
Artists: Martin Boyle, Bryony Dunne, Brian Farrell, Edy Fung, Kathryn Graham, Michael Hanna, Patrick Hickey, Siobhán Kelly, Lucie McLaughlin, Christopher Steenson, Frank Wasser. Selectors: Locky Morris & Catherine Hemelryk
ccadld.org/exhibitions/urgencies-2021

URGENCIES (2019)
Artists: Bronagh Gallagher, Denise McShannon, Doireann Ní Ghrioghair, Hamish MacPherson, Laura O’Connor, Michelle Hall, Myriad Carten, Niamh McConaghy, Paddy McKeown and Soft Fiction Projects (Alessia Cargnelli and Emily McFarland).
Selectors: Willie Doherty & Catherine Hemelryk
ccadld.org/exhibitions/urgencies

Image: Kelly Ewing, installation view details of 'Loch nEathach stone' (2024) and 'beneath the water' (2025). Photo: CCA Derry~Londonderry & Paola Bernardelli.

Supported by Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Derry City & Strabane District Council, Garfield Weston Foundation