Deadline: 03-May-2026
The Office for Contemporary Art Norway offers funding to support international activities for contemporary artists and art professionals from Norway. The scheme includes travel and production grants to enable participation in exhibitions, projects, and global art events. The total budget for 2026 is NOK 5.5 million across two funding categories.
Overview of the Scheme
The Office for Contemporary Art Norway (OCA) International Support Scheme helps Norwegian and Norway-based artists expand their international presence.
It supports participation in global exhibitions, cultural projects, and professional platforms, while also encouraging the creation of new artworks for international audiences.
Key Focus Areas
International Artistic Mobility
- Travel to exhibitions and art events abroad
- Participation in seminars and public programmes
Artistic Production
- Creation of new artworks for international presentation
- Support for innovative and contemporary practices
Global Collaboration
- Engagement with international curators and institutions
- Strengthening Norway’s cultural exchange and visibility
Funding Categories
International Travel Support
Funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Norway
- Budget: NOK 2,300,000
- Covers:
- Travel and accommodation
- Transport and insurance of artworks
- Technical production (e.g., catalogues)
Not Covered
- Per diem expenses
- Salaries or artist fees
- Research trips
- Studio or space rentals
- Writing fees
- Travel for assistants
International Production Support
Funded by the Ministry of Culture and Equality Norway
- Budget: NOK 3,200,000
- Supports:
- Production of new artworks
- Materials and specialised technical services
Not Covered
- Installation costs
- Travel expenses
- Equipment purchases
- Institutional staff costs
- Studio rent or general assistance
- Artist fees beyond technical contributors
Total Funding
- Total 2026 budget: NOK 5,500,000
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Norwegian artists
- Norway-based artists and art professionals
- Curators and cultural practitioners
- International institutions or curators inviting Norwegian artists
Additional Eligibility Rules
- Applicants must have confirmed international invitations
- Group applications are allowed
- Separate applications required for multiple projects
Not Eligible
- Students (except PhD fellows)
- Previously submitted projects
- Norwegian institutions receiving annual public funding
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
Projects must:
- Involve international exhibitions or events
- Demonstrate artistic quality and relevance
- Include confirmed participation or invitation
- Contribute to international visibility of Norwegian art
- Align with contemporary art practices
How to Apply
Follow these steps:
- Secure an invitation from an international institution or project
- Choose the appropriate funding category (travel or production)
- Prepare project details and budget
- Submit the application through OCA’s official system
- Apply separately for each project if needed
Important Notes
- Institutions can apply for travel support on behalf of artists
- Artists can separately apply for production support
- Duplicate or previously submitted applications are not accepted
What to Expect After Selection
- Financial support for travel or production
- Participation in international exhibitions or events
- Increased global exposure and networking
- Contribution to international contemporary art dialogue
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without a confirmed international invitation
- Mixing travel and production costs incorrectly
- Including ineligible expenses in the budget
- Submitting duplicate or incomplete applications
- Applying as a student (non-PhD)
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly demonstrate international relevance and impact
- Provide a detailed and accurate budget
- Align your project with OCA’s objectives
- Highlight artistic quality and innovation
- Ensure all eligibility criteria are met
Why This Scheme Matters
Expands Global Reach
Supports international exposure for Norwegian artists
Encourages Artistic Innovation
Funds creation of new artworks
Strengthens Cultural Exchange
Builds connections between Norway and global art communities
Supports Professional Development
Enables participation in international platforms
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who manages this funding scheme?
The Office for Contemporary Art Norway (OCA).
2. What types of support are available?
International travel support and production support.
3. What is the total budget?
NOK 5.5 million for 2026.
4. Can I apply for multiple projects?
Yes, but you must submit separate applications for each.
5. Are students eligible?
Only PhD fellows; other students are not eligible.
6. Can institutions apply on behalf of artists?
Yes, for travel support.
7. What is not funded?
Expenses such as salaries, per diem, equipment, and studio rent are not covered.
Conclusion
The OCA International Support Scheme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for Norwegian artists and art professionals to expand their international presence. By supporting travel and production activities, the program enhances global cultural exchange, fosters artistic innovation, and strengthens Norway’s position in the contemporary art landscape.
For more information, visit OCA.
