Fourteen artist residencies were granted funding totalling €538,000 at the expert group’s meeting in April. With a total of €2.8 million requested, the success rate stood at 19 per cent.
“Funding was awarded to residencies with a thematic focus, collaborative residencies between different locations and organisations, discipline-specific residencies, as well as multidisciplinary residency centres. We aim to maintain a balance between large institutions and smaller, self-initiated residency initiatives”, says Mari-Liis Rebane, chair of the expert group.
“We assessed how clearly the residency’s concept is articulated; whether the applicant has the resource capacity or experience to organise residencies – the quality of studios, accommodation, and overall working environment, strength and diversity of collaborators and financial sources, an established network of contacts and partners. It was also important that the residency center ensures fair compensation for artists, as well as meaningful professional development opportunities through participation”, Rebane continues.
Connections locally and online are important
Connections with local communities, audiences, or cultural scenes – all of which create opportunities for cross-border collaboration and visibility – were considered a bonus. Mari-Liis Rebane notes that outward-facing online activities are also significant.
“It is recommended that applicants maintain a strong social media presence that demonstrates active engagement, not only in the application but also through their public profile. Communication activities are an important aspect that we pay close attention to. It matters how outcomes are documented, shared, and communicated to wider audiences”, she says.
In addition, the committee recommends that applicants carefully consider the balance of their budget, particularly between administrative costs, accommodation, and artist fees.
“The needs, opportunities, and well-being of the artists should be a clear priority for the applicant”, Rebane emphasises.
Examples of Residencies That Received Funding
– Bridges in Depth is a new Nordic residency programme hosted by HAUT. It will welcome two Nordic-based artists per season over the next two years (2027–2028) to take part in a four-week residency in Copenhagen, Denmark. Each residency is dedicated to artistic research in a studio and library setting.
– Titanik A.i.R + M-Cult: Residing Non-linear Technologies – Sonic Worldings is a joint Nordic–Baltic residency programme taking place in 2027, organised by Arte and M-Cult for artists working with sonic and technology-driven practices. It will be held in Turku and Helsinki and aims to strengthen connections between the organisations and the Nordic–Baltic art scenes.
– Narva Art Residency invites five Nordic or Baltic artists to explore the theme of borders and border landscapes in Narva. Focusing on the five human senses, the geopolitical reality of the border will be transformed into a multisensory experience, fostering deeper understanding, sensitivity, and new perspectives beyond existing stereotypes.
See all the residencies that were granted funding in this round