Open call for Artists Residency Programme (Turkey)

Deadline: 11-Jan-2026

The Delfina Foundation Residency for Artists from Turkey offers a fully funded six-week research-focused residency in London during the autumn 2026 season. Designed for contemporary visual artists, the programme provides time, space, funding, and professional development within an international arts and research environment. Applications close on 11 January 2026, with the residency running from 21 September to 1 November 2026.

Residency Overview

The Delfina Foundation, based in London, is inviting applications from artists based in Turkey for a funded residency as part of its open autumn 2026 residency season.

Delfina Foundation runs four residency seasons each year, focused either on open independent research or thematic collective research. This specific opportunity falls under the open research model, allowing artists to pursue self-directed artistic inquiry.

The residency is designed to support artistic development through research, dialogue, and immersion in London’s contemporary art ecosystem.

Residency Dates and Duration

• Residency period: 21 September to 1 November 2026

• Duration: 6 weeks (within Delfina’s 12-week autumn residency season)

• Location: London, United Kingdom

Purpose and Learning Environment

The residency provides artists with:

• Dedicated time and space for independent research

• Access to a professional, research-driven environment

• Opportunities to engage with London’s cultural institutions and creative networks

The programme balances individual artistic practice with structured collective activities.

Programme Structure and Activities

Alongside independent research, residents participate in a curated programme that includes:

• Guided visits to museums, galleries, and artist-run spaces

• Engagements with non-profits and cultural institutions

• Studio visits and trips to institutions outside London

• Presentations, talks, and public events

• Informal gatherings and shared meals to encourage peer exchange

Artists interact with curators, academics, researchers, and fellow artists, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration.

Professional Development Opportunities

The residency includes structured professional development support, such as:

• Artist presentations and critiques (crits)

• Portfolio reviews

• Mentoring sessions

• Peer feedback and collaborative exchange

These activities are designed to strengthen artistic practice and support long-term career development.

Residency Support Package and Funding

The Delfina Foundation residency is fully funded and includes:

• Return economy-class flight to London

• Airport transfers within the UK

• Visa fee reimbursement, if required

• Living allowance of £40 per day

• Materials budget of £500

• London public transport travel pass

This support enables artists to focus fully on research and practice during the residency.

Accommodation and Facilities

Residents are housed at Delfina Foundation’s residency house, which accommodates up to eight residents.

Each resident receives:

• A private single bedroom with a desk

• Access to shared facilities, including:

  • Bathrooms

  • Laundry rooms

  • Kitchen

  • Library

  • Dining room

The communal living environment supports dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning.

Insurance Requirements

• Travel insurance is not provided

• Selected artists must arrange their own coverage, including:

  • Medical emergencies

  • Personal belongings

• Proof of insurance must be submitted before travel

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be a national of Turkey or currently living and working in Turkey

• Be a contemporary visual artist

• Seek to develop artistic practice through research and access to resources

• Be proficient in English, as interviews and presentations are conducted in English

• Be able to clearly articulate their artistic practice and research interests

All artists from Turkey are welcome to apply.

Priority Consideration

Priority is given to artists who:

• Have not previously lived in London

• Have not participated in residency programmes in London

Why This Residency Matters

The Delfina Foundation residency offers:

• International exposure within a leading global art city

• Access to high-level artistic and research networks

• Time for focused, uninterrupted artistic inquiry

• Opportunities to build long-term transnational collaborations

• Professional growth that benefits both the artist and their local networks in Turkey

Applicants are expected to explain how the residency’s impact will extend beyond their individual practice.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Application Deadline and Key Dates

• Application deadline: Sunday, 11 January 2026 at 23:59 GMT

• Shortlisting notifications: By 23 January 2026

• Online interviews: Late January 2026

• Final decisions announced: By early February 2026

Application Process

1. Prepare required application materials as outlined by Delfina Foundation

2. Submit the application online only before the deadline

3. Await shortlisting results

4. If shortlisted, attend an online interview conducted in English

Late submissions will not be accepted.

Selection Process

• Applications are reviewed by a selection panel

• The panel includes Delfina Foundation representatives and external advisors

• Selection is based on the strength of application materials

• Delfina Foundation makes the final decision

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without demonstrating English proficiency

• Failing to explain how the residency benefits local networks

• Submitting incomplete or unclear application materials

• Missing the application deadline

• Underexplaining research intentions for an open residency

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the residency fully funded?

Yes. The residency covers travel, accommodation, daily allowance, materials budget, and local transport.

2. Can artists from outside Turkey apply?

No. Applicants must be Turkish nationals or currently living and working in Turkey.

3. What type of artists are eligible?

The programme is open to contemporary visual artists working in any medium.

4. Is prior international residency experience required?

No. In fact, priority is given to artists who have not previously undertaken residencies in London.

5. Is travel insurance included?

No. Selected artists must arrange and provide proof of their own travel insurance.

6. Are interviews mandatory?

Yes. Shortlisted applicants must attend an online interview in English.

7. When will applicants be notified of the final decision?

All applicants will be informed of the outcome by early February 2026.

Conclusion

The Delfina Foundation Residency for Artists from Turkey is a highly competitive, fully funded opportunity offering meaningful international exposure, research time, and professional development in London. For contemporary visual artists seeking to deepen their practice, expand global networks, and generate lasting impact beyond the residency, this programme provides an exceptional platform for growth and exchange.

For more information, visit Delfina Foundation.