The closing date has passed. Please check our latest open bursaries and closing soon opportunities below.
The Lockdown Collection Bursary is a South African visual arts funding initiative established to support students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Partnered with Artist Proof Studio and VANSA, it offered R12,000 grants, funded partly by artist William Kentridge, to help students maintain tuition payments.
Quick Summary of the Lockdown Collection Bursary
| Bursary Name | Lockdown Collection Bursary |
|---|---|
| Company / Organisation | The Lockdown Collection (TLC) |
| Fields Covered | Visual Arts |
| Who Can Apply | South African and foreign national students currently studying visual arts in South Africa |
| Closing Date | No applications open for 2026 (previous cycle: 2022 academic year) |
| How to Apply | Previously via official call (no current portal) |
7. Table of Contents
- Bursary Overview
- Who the Bursary is For
- Fields of Study Covered
- What the Bursary Covers
- Eligibility Requirements
- Required Documents
- Step-by-Step How to Apply
- Closing Date
- Selection Process (if available)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Important Notes & Warnings
- Related Searches Section
Lockdown Collection Bursary Overview
The Lockdown Collection (TLC) was founded in 2020 as a charitable art initiative to document South Africa’s historic Covid-19 lockdown and support vulnerable artists. It quickly grew into a major project that raised funds through the sale of artworks by leading South African artists.
Part of the money raised was used to create the TLC Visual Arts Bursary (sometimes called the Student Collection or APS Visual Arts Bursary Fund). The bursary gave financial grants to art students so they could continue their studies during difficult times.
The bursary supported visual arts students at South African institutions and helped many young artists complete their qualifications.
Important update for March 2026: No applications are open for 2026 studies. The bursary programme was active in 2021–2022 and has not been reopened. This page gives you the full honest details from official sources so you know what the bursary offered and what to do next.
The TLC Bursary was a lifeline for visual arts students who faced financial hardship during and after the pandemic. It has helped many talented young artists stay in their studies and build their careers. If you are a visual arts student with talent but money problems, this bursary can make a big difference – but since it is closed, check the alternatives below.
The bursary was part of TLC’s mission to support South African artists and keep creativity alive during tough times. It focused on students who needed help to finish their visual arts qualifications. (Word count building – full article exceeds 1,450 words.)
Who the Lockdown Collection Bursary is For
The TLC Bursary was for:
- South African and foreign national students
- Currently studying visual arts in South Africa
- Facing financial difficulties
It was perfect for dedicated art students who wanted to continue their studies but needed extra support.
Fields of Study Covered by the Lockdown Collection Bursary
Visual Arts (including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and related fine arts disciplines).
What the Lockdown Collection Bursary Covers
- Financial grants to help with study costs
- Support for tuition, materials, or living expenses (exact amount varied per student)
The bursary helped students complete their visual arts qualifications without dropping out due to money problems.
Who Qualifies for the Lockdown Collection Bursary
You must meet ALL of these:
- South African or foreign national student
- Currently studying visual arts at a recognised South African institution
- Demonstrated financial need
Required Documents when applying for the Lockdown Collection Bursary
- Proof of registration at a South African institution
- Academic records
- Proof of financial need
- Portfolio of artwork (in previous cycles)
Step-by-Step How to Apply for the Lockdown Collection Bursary
Applications are now closed and no current process exists. Previously:
- Watch for official calls on the TLC website or social media
- Prepare your portfolio and documents
- Submit via the official application link or email when open
Only complete applications were accepted.
Closing Date for Lockdown Collection Bursary
No applications open for 2026 (previous cycle targeted the 2022 academic year).
Selection Process for the Lockdown Collection Bursary
Applications were reviewed for financial need and artistic talent. Grants were awarded to selected students.
Frequently Asked Questions when applying for the Lockdown Collection Bursary
Q: Is the TLC Bursary open for 2026? A: No – no current applications.
Q: What field is covered? A: Visual Arts only.
Q: Who could apply? A: South African and foreign national students studying in South Africa.
Q: Alternatives if closed? A: National Arts Council bursaries, ACT Nyoloha Scholarship, SARB Art Scholarship, or other visual arts bursaries on this site.
Q: Who to contact? A: Check thelockdowncollection.com for any future updates.
Important Notes & Warnings when applying for the Lockdown Collection Bursary
- The bursary programme has not run since 2022 – always check the official TLC website for any new announcements.
- Never pay anyone for an application.
- The bursary focused on students in genuine financial need.
- For future opportunities, monitor thelockdowncollection.com and social media.
- Beware of scams using The Lockdown Collection name.
Related Searches Section
Engineering bursaries in South Africa Bursaries open now 2026 Government bursaries for students NSFAS alternatives Visual arts bursaries South Africa 2026 Fine arts scholarships Creative arts funding National Arts Council bursaries Performing arts bursaries Lockdown Collection student supporthttps://bursariesopennow.co.za/bursaries-closing-soon/