Deadline: 31-May-2026
The Leipzig International Art Programme (LIA) residency exchange is designed to support contemporary visual artists in engaging with democratic themes through artistic practice. The programme provides space, resources, and curatorial guidance for developing new work or research during a three-month stay in Leipzig, Germany.
The residency emphasizes reflection on democracy, its historical evolution, societal relevance, and interpretation through visual arts.
Core Theme
The central theme of the residency is democracy, explored through:
- Historical development of democratic systems
- Contemporary relevance of democracy in society
- Artistic interpretation of democratic values
- Social engagement and civic participation
- The role of art in shaping public discourse
Artists are expected to integrate this theme into their proposed project and artistic practice.
Funding and Support
The selected artist will receive:
- Free accommodation in an 83-square-meter furnished studio
- Monthly fellowship stipend of €800
- Travel cost coverage (flights)
- Visa fee reimbursement
- Health insurance coverage
- Curatorial guidance from LIA Director Anna-Louise Rolland
- Participation in a curated group exhibition
Residency Outcome
The residency concludes with:
- Participation in a group exhibition in Leipzig
- Exhibition during Spinnerei Rundgang / Gallery Tour
- Public presentation of developed artistic work
- January 2027 exhibition showcase
Objectives of the Programme
The residency aims to:
- Promote artistic exploration of democracy
- Encourage cross-cultural dialogue through art
- Support research-based visual art practices
- Strengthen international artistic exchange
- Foster social engagement through creative expression
- Provide professional development opportunities for artists
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold Bangladeshi nationality
- Be professional visual artists
- Have an established artistic practice
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Expression of interest (up to 500 words) describing:
- Proposed project or research during residency
- Connection of the project to democracy
- Relevance to artistic practice and biography
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or artistic biography including:
- Professional experience
- Exhibitions and projects
- Educational background
- Up to six images of artwork or relevant media links (video/audio)
Selection Expectations
Applicants are expected to:
- Demonstrate a strong artistic practice
- Clearly connect their work to the theme of democracy
- Show potential for social or public engagement after residency
- Explain how the residency will contribute to their artistic development
- Reflect on how the experience will be shared in Bangladesh
Why This Residency Matters
The programme is significant because it:
- Supports international artistic exchange
- Encourages critical reflection on democracy through art
- Strengthens cross-cultural understanding
- Provides professional development for emerging and established artists
- Promotes socially engaged contemporary art practices
- Creates platforms for global artistic visibility
Conclusion
The Leipzig International Art Programme residency offers Bangladeshi visual artists a unique opportunity to explore democracy through artistic research and creation in Germany. With full logistical support, curatorial mentorship, and exhibition exposure, the programme fosters meaningful dialogue between art, society, and democratic values while strengthening international cultural exchange.
For more information, visit LIA.
