Cartel Studios names 11 resident artists in new London hub for female creatives

The residency runs for
three months from May to August 2026, bringing 11 selected London-based
creatives into the studio for regular support and development. The space
comprises three studios geared for live instrument rehearsals, live
instrument recording, and electronic music and vocal production,
alongside two vocal booths and a dressing area.

The
Kut, who also fronts her own rock project, said the motivation to set
up the studio came from struggling to access affordable rehearsal and
recording spaces when starting out in London.

“I
decided to set up a studio because I had a terrible experience of
paying for overpriced spaces,” she explained. “One night we’d been
double booked in the rehearsal room we usually practiced in in the
basements of New Cross, and so last minute had to pay £80 for a room
with just a few basics, just to play for a few hours. I decided there
and then to set up something better.”

Cartel
Studios has previously hosted recordings from several female-led
projects, including Argonaut’s self-titled debut and rehearsals for The
Kut’s record GRIT.

Announcing
the selected resident artists via social media, The Kut said: “I’m
absolutely over the moon to welcome Cartel Studios’ first Resident
Artists following some incredible applications and an incredibly
difficult selection process. These ladies are all making incredible
creative work in the capital, predominantly in music but also in the
theatre or dance space.”

The
full list of resident artists for May 2026 includes Alea, Emi Acidic,
6ixZB, Lola Pony, Mansion, Daisy Boi, Eche, IcedBarbie, Elise Marra
(2003 Productions), Queen of Uncool, and Marianne Leigh.

The
studios remain available for recording and rehearsals for
non-residents, with or without an in-house engineer. “The diary is now
open!” The Kut added.