A Look at India’s Art Residency Programs

India is home to a vibrant and diverse art scene, with numerous art residencies offering unique opportunities for artists to explore, collaborate, and innovate. Have a look at our curated list of art residencies that provide a supportive environment where creatives from various disciplines can immerse themselves in local culture, engage with traditional crafts, and push the boundaries of their artistic practice.

Nila House Residency, Jaipur
Nila House invites artists to reside within its premises, which hold unique heritage value. Through the Nila framework, residents will have the chance to interact, collaborate across disciplines, and actively participate in community craft projects. This residency offers a valuable opportunity for applicants looking to enhance their practice through hands-on craft processes and engagement with endangered knowledge systems and their custodians. In return, the residency aims to foster growth and provide exposure for both community groups and the craftspeople involved.

Art Ichol, Maihar
A patron of the arts for more than 30 years, Ambika Beri founded Gallery Sanskriti in Calcutta in 1990. She became captivated by the art, history, and heritage of Maihar in Madhya Pradesh's Bundelkhand region, leading her to create a haven for artists to explore and develop new ideas. Over the years, painters, ceramicists, sculptors, writers, photographers, and filmmakers have all experienced the unique essence of Maihar. The center serves as an excellent venue for workshops, offsite presentations, gatherings, conferences, and brainstorming sessions. With its specialized infrastructure and diverse spaces, Art Ichol stands out as an exceptional artists' residency and workspace, making it an ideal location for both short and long-term stays.

Art Farm Residency, Goa
The Art Farm Residency invites international thinkers and creatives to Goa, encouraging collaboration with the local community and showcasing the potential of an intercultural society. This residency program is designed to give artists dedicated time for creative development and exploration. Participants will experience life in Goa's rural agricultural community while enjoying virtually uninterrupted time to focus on their artwork. Artists from various disciplines—including performance, writing, audio, and visual media—are welcome to apply. The residency aims to support a diverse range of artists, from emerging talents to established figures, particularly those engaged with themes of feminism, food, soil, and spiritual ecology. The selection committee evaluates applications based on artistic merit and a strong commitment to the arts.

Arthshila X Khoj Artist Residency, Siwan
Khoj and Arthshila Artist Residency is a fully-funded, on-site art residency at Parivartan in Siwan, Bihar. They usually seek six exceptionally skilled artists specializing in ceramics, sculpture, and printmaking, who possess a unique voice and a powerful message. Parivartan, located in Siwan, Bihar, is an initiative by the Takshila Educational Society focused on integrated rural community development through various grassroots initiatives.

Farm Studio International Artist Residency, Rajasthan
Farm Studio was established to harness the creative potential that arises from exchange, dialogue, and collaboration between rural Indian artists and international contemporary artists. On a local level, Farm Studio fosters and honors community artistic and cultural identities while supporting various community-based activities. It invites artists to join from October to March each year, providing accommodations for 6 to 12 residents at a time. This residency fosters an environment where creativity can thrive, allowing artists to immerse themselves fully in their work.

Words Platform Desk
Date 17.10.2024