Open call: 2026 Bilateral residency programme in Germany

The 2026 edition of the programme offers two six-month fellowships (March to August 2026) for Namibian artists to live and work in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The selected artists will undertake the residency together, allowing them to share experiences and support one another during their stay. A reciprocal call for artists based in Baden-Württemberg to undertake residencies in Namibia will be announced separately.

The programme includes events such as exhibitions, readings, discussions, and workshops, aimed at engaging with local audiences and cultural communities in Baden-Württemberg. Applicants are free to define the thematic focus of their proposed projects.

Who can apply?

This open call is directed at Namibian artists working in any artistic discipline, including but not limited to:

• Music and sound
• Visual and performing arts
• Design
• Literature
• Art education

Eligibility criteria:

• Applicants must have good English language skills.
• Individuals of all ages may apply.
• Applicants currently enrolled in vocational training or undergraduate/graduate university studies (excluding PhD candidates) are not eligible.

Fellowship benefits

The selected fellows will receive:

• A free, furnished live/work studio (utilities included: electricity, water, heating).
• A monthly grant of €1 300 (about $1 500).
• Travel expenses for arrival and departure (one-time payment).
• Project funding and a one-time materials allowance of €2 000.
• Visa expenses.
• Health insurance.

Application process

To apply, please submit the following documents in PDF format via email to: s.thieroff@akademie-solitude.de.

Required documents (all in English):

• A motivation letter (max. 1 A4 page) outlining your interest in the residency and reasons for applying.
• A project proposal (max. 1 A4 page) detailing what you aim to achieve and how you plan to engage with artistic communities in Baden-Württemberg.
• A short biography and an informative portfolio/documentation of previous artistic work.

Key dates

• Residency period: 1 March to 31 August 2026.
• Application deadline: 8 July 2025, by 24:00 (CET).

An international jury will select the two successful applicants.

For further information or questions, please contact Sophie-Charlotte Thieroff at s.thieroff@akademie-solitude.de.

View the original call here.