Deadline: 18-Jan-2026
The Roma Calling Residency by the Swiss Institute offers emerging artists and researchers a 5–10 month immersive program in Rome, fostering transdisciplinary collaboration and international exchange. Residents participate in workshops, study trips, events, and planning initiatives, with access to digital resources, the Swiss Institute’s network, and an intensive Italian language course. Financial support of up to CHF 1,500/month is available if external funding is insufficient.
Overview
The Roma Calling Residency provides emerging researchers and artists a dynamic platform to advance projects at the intersection of art, science, and society. Hosted at Villa Maraini in Rome, the program emphasizes transdisciplinary exchange, cultural dialogue, and collaboration across borders. Residents are integrated into the Swiss Institute’s international network, connecting with Milano Calling and Palermo Calling residents, as well as broader academic and artistic communities.
Program Purpose
The residency is designed to:
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Support transdisciplinary collaboration between artistic and scientific research.
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Facilitate international exchange between Switzerland, Italy, and beyond.
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Promote innovative events, experimental practices, and academic excellence.
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Engage participants in global debates on art and society.
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Encourage residents to explore new methods and alternative perspectives beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.
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Enable emerging researchers and artists to develop projects within a stimulating, collaborative environment.
Key Benefits
Residents gain access to extensive professional, academic, and cultural resources:
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Participation in study trips, workshops, meetings, studio visits, and desk visits.
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Planning and execution of an event supported by the Swiss Institute.
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Engagement in the Institute’s online platforms, sharing in-depth content and research outcomes.
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Cohabitation with other artists and researchers at Villa Maraini, promoting collaboration and idea exchange.
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Interaction with residents from Milano Calling and Palermo Calling programs.
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Access to the Swiss Institute library and digital resources.
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Intensive Italian language course for enhanced integration.
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Support for lodging, weekday lunches, and workspace during the residency.
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Optional financial contribution of up to CHF 1,500/month if external funding is unavailable despite documented efforts.
Duration
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Standard residency: 10 months.
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Optional shorter residency: 5 months, depending on the application pathway.
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Core program activities occur over approximately 20 days across the academic year, supplemented by ongoing collaborative and individual work.
Who Is Eligible?
The residency is open to:
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Emerging researchers across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and related disciplines.
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Emerging artists in visual arts, design, architecture, literature, dance, theatre, film, music, or related fields.
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Applicants capable of engaging in cross-disciplinary collaboration and contributing to innovative, transdisciplinary projects.
Why It Matters
The Roma Calling Residency is significant because it:
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Promotes cross-disciplinary innovation at the intersection of art and science.
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Fosters cultural immersion in Rome and engagement with Italian and international networks.
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Provides a stimulating collaborative environment with access to academic, artistic, and institutional resources.
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Supports global dialogue on art, science, and societal challenges, nurturing emerging talent in multiple disciplines.
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Enables residents to develop impactful projects with exposure to international audiences and platforms.
How to Apply / How It Works
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Prepare a transdisciplinary project proposal highlighting collaboration between art and science.
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Gather academic or professional documentation demonstrating relevant experience.
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Submit the application according to Swiss Institute guidelines.
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Participate in study trips, workshops, events, and desk/studio visits.
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Reside at Villa Maraini, cohabiting with fellow residents for collaborative engagement.
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Plan and execute an event supported by the Swiss Institute and contribute to online platforms.
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Request financial support (up to CHF 1,500/month) if external funding is insufficient.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Failing to demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration.
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Submitting proposals with vague objectives or outcomes.
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Neglecting integration with Rome’s cultural landscape.
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Omitting documented efforts for external funding when applying for financial support.
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Overlooking the residency’s structured program of activities throughout the year.
FAQ
1. Who can apply?
Emerging researchers in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or related fields, and emerging artists in visual arts, design, architecture, literature, dance, theatre, film, or music.
2. What is the duration of the residency?
10 months is standard, with a 5-month option depending on the application.
3. Is financial support available?
Yes, up to CHF 1,500/month if external funding is unavailable.
4. What activities are included?
Study trips, workshops, meetings, studio and desk visits, planning events, online platform participation, and Italian language courses.
5. Where is the residency located?
Villa Maraini, Rome, with exchanges across Milano Calling and Palermo Calling programs.
6. Is cohabitation required?
Yes, residents share living space to foster collaboration and interaction.
7. How does the residency support networking?
Residents access the Swiss Institute network, exchange with other program residents, and participate in events and platforms with international exposure.
Conclusion
The Roma Calling Residency provides emerging artists and researchers with an immersive, transdisciplinary environment in Rome to develop innovative projects. By combining cultural immersion, professional development, networking, and institutional support, the residency empowers residents to contribute meaningfully to global conversations on art, science, and society.
For more information, visit Swiss Institute.