The Jayne Wilson Bequest Bursary 2026 Call for Expressions of Interest

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) is calling for expressions of interest for applications to the Jayne Wilson Bequest Bursary for 2026.

The bursary is named in recognition of the late Jayne Wilson, who was an active member of the Hobart business community and was keenly interested in art, culture and science. The Wilson Bequest was generously granted to TMAG in 2016, with a portion allocated to bursaries to assist with studies that benefit TMAG and its collections.

The bursary for up to $5,000 is aimed at graduate-level or above research associated with TMAG’s collections. There will be one successful applicant per year and the funds can contribute towards airfares, accommodation, a subsistence allowance, or other expenses.

About the Fund

  • The Fund is administered by the Director of TMAG and is to be used to promote research excellence and contribute to the knowledge of TMAG’s collections.
  • The Jayne Wilson Bequest Bursary will be allocated for a period of one year.
  • Priority may be given to an early career researcher if the proposal outlined has significant merit.

Who can apply?

  • A graduate-level or above researcher who brings their specialist knowledge to the TMAG collections.
  • An early career researcher who will work with TMAG specialist professional staff on the collections.
  • TMAG staff with proposals to gain knowledge or skills that will add value to the TMAG collection.

Project Proposals

  • Must relate specifically to TMAG’s collections that include cultural heritage, art, First Peoples or natural sciences.
  • Must add value to the TMAG collection, for example it could lead to a particular subset of collections/specimens being identified, curated, and made accessible.
  • Must have been discussed and supported by a relevant TMAG staff member.
  • Result in a publication, a lecture, an exhibition, workshop, online product, catalogue or other tangible product to communicate the research.
  • Must be completed (including reporting) within 18 months of commencement.

Information for applicants

  • Submit a short outline (no more than one A4 page) outlining:
    • Objectives of the research
    • Timeline including milestones
    • Proposed outputs
  • Submit an academic curriculum vitae.
  • Demonstrate a record of completion of projects within specified time frames.
  • Funds will be allocated on the bases of the quality of the proposed research, its originality and value to TMAG.
  • The recipient will be required to submit a report to the TMAG Trustees within three months of completion of their tenure, outlining achievements, expenses, and date of outcome delivery. All outcomes of the program will acknowledge the support of the estate of Jayne Wilson.
  • Enquiries may be directed to Dr David Ashley Kerr, Head of Art, ash.kerr@tmag.tas.gov.au

The selection process

  • Applications are to be made in writing, addressed to the Director, TMAG, and are due by 5:00 pm on 1 May 2026
  • Applications to be emailed to director@tmag.tas.gov.au
  • Project proposals will be assessed by a panel of TMAG staff and approved by the Director.
  • Applicants may be invited to resubmit in response to panel advice.
  • The successful applicant will be advised by 15 May 2026.

Exclusions

  • The funds are not to be used for the purchase of collections, materials, or equipment unless they are required for the completion of a research project. If acquiring specific materials or equipment is deemed necessary, they would remain property of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
  • The funds are not to be used to fund field trips without having prior approval from Dr David Ashley Kerr, Head of Art.