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Milano Calling – Swiss Institute Residency Program (Switzerland)

Deadline: 18-Jan-2026

The Milano Calling Residency Program by the Istituto Svizzero offers a seven-month immersive opportunity for emerging artists and researchers to collaborate across disciplines in Milan. Residents participate in study trips, workshops, exhibitions, and networking while accessing the Swiss Institute’s digital resources, international networks, and Italian language courses. Financial support of up to CHF 1,500/month is available if external funding cannot be secured.

Overview

The Milano Calling Residency Program provides emerging artists and researchers a transdisciplinary platform to develop projects that merge art, science, and innovation. Hosted in Milan, the program emphasizes cross-disciplinary collaboration, international exchange, and experimental practices that shape the global discourse on art and society.

Program Purpose

The residency aims to:

  • Facilitate artistic and scientific collaboration across disciplines.

  • Encourage exchange between Switzerland, Italy, and international contexts.

  • Support innovative projects, exhibitions, and events that explore forward-looking questions.

  • Engage residents in global discussions on art, society, and innovation.

  • Host young researchers and artists committed to contributing to the future of art and science.

Key Benefits

Residents enjoy a wide range of professional and cultural resources:

  • Immersive seven-month stay in Milan with one artist and one researcher per year.

  • Participation in study trips, opening events, workshops, meetings, studio visits, and desk visits.

  • Exchanges with residents from Roma Calling and Palermo Calling programs.

  • Planning and executing an independent event supported by the Istituto Svizzero.

  • Contribution to the Istituto Svizzero’s online platforms with in-depth content.

  • Access to the Istituto Svizzero’s extensive network in Italy, Switzerland, and internationally.

  • Use of digital resources, archival materials, and institutional libraries.

  • Cohabitation with another resident in Milan to foster collaboration.

  • Intensive Italian language course for integration and active participation.

  • Small weekday lunch contribution, with optional financial support up to CHF 1,500/month if external funding is unavailable.

Who Is Eligible?

The program is open to:

  • Researchers, doctoral, and postdoctoral candidates in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and related fields.

  • Artists in fine arts, design, architecture, film, literature, dance, theatre, music, and related disciplines.

  • Emerging professionals motivated to engage in cross-disciplinary collaboration and produce innovative projects in art and science.

Why It Matters

The residency is significant because it:

  • Promotes cross-disciplinary innovation in research and artistic practice.

  • Encourages cultural immersion and engagement with Milan’s artistic landscape.

  • Strengthens professional and academic networks across Europe and internationally.

  • Supports the creation of high-quality exhibitions, projects, and events with global impact.

  • Contributes to shaping the global discourse on art, science, and societal challenges.

How to Apply / How It Works

  1. Formulate a project proposal demonstrating interdisciplinary collaboration.

  2. Prepare documentation of academic or professional experience.

  3. Submit the application according to Istituto Svizzero guidelines.

  4. Participate in study trips, workshops, events, and exchanges.

  5. Reside in Milan and cohabit with another resident for collaborative engagement.

  6. Plan and execute an independent event supported by the Istituto Svizzero.

  7. Request financial support of up to CHF 1,500/month if other funding is unavailable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Failing to demonstrate clear interdisciplinary collaboration.

  • Submitting a proposal with vague objectives or unclear outcomes.

  • Overlooking engagement with Milan’s cultural landscape.

  • Omitting efforts to secure external funding when applying for financial support.

  • Neglecting language preparation or institutional resource use.

FAQ

1. Who can apply?
Researchers (doctoral or postdoctoral) in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or related fields, and artists in fine arts, design, architecture, film, literature, dance, theatre, or music.

2. How long is the residency?
Seven months, with immersive participation in Milan.

3. Is financial support available?
Yes, up to CHF 1,500/month if external funding does not cover costs.

4. What activities are included?
Study trips, workshops, meetings, events, studio visits, desk visits, online platform contributions, and Italian language courses.

5. Are international applicants eligible?
Yes, applicants from any nationality may apply.

6. Is cohabitation required?
Yes, residents share an apartment in Milan to encourage collaboration and exchange.

7. How does the residency support professional networking?
Residents gain access to the Istituto Svizzero’s network, exchanges with Roma Calling and Palermo Calling residents, and opportunities to present events internationally.

Conclusion

The Milano Calling Residency Program provides emerging artists and researchers a seven-month immersive platform for transdisciplinary collaboration in Milan. By combining cultural immersion, professional development, and access to international networks, the program empowers residents to produce innovative projects and actively contribute to the global dialogue on art, science, and society.

For more information, visit Swiss Institute.