Request for Proposals: Curatorial Residency Program in Switzerland

Deadline: 18-Jan-2026

The Swiss Institute Curatorial Residency Program in Palermo supports curators and researchers to advance transdisciplinary work in art and science while fostering international exchange. Residents gain access to study trips, workshops, public events, and institutional networks, with optional financial support up to CHF 1,500/month. The program is open to experienced curators and researchers in art history, contemporary art, architecture, and related fields with ties to Switzerland.

Overview

The Swiss Institute Curatorial Residency Program offers curators and researchers an immersive opportunity to develop innovative projects in Palermo, contributing to the intersection of art, science, and society. The program emphasizes transdisciplinary collaboration, international exchange, and experimental practices, providing residents with the platform and resources to engage with both local and global artistic networks.

Program Purpose

The residency aims to:

• Facilitate cross-disciplinary exchange between art and scientific research.

• Strengthen cultural and academic collaboration between Switzerland, Italy, and internationally.

• Highlight innovative projects, experimental practices, and academic excellence.

• Enable participation in the global debate on art and society.

• Encourage residents to explore new methods and boundaries in curatorial practice.

• Support emerging curators and researchers in contributing to the future of art, science, and innovation.

Key Benefits

Residents receive comprehensive support and engagement opportunities:

• Study trip participation as part of the Rome, Milan, Palermo Calling program.

• Access to Swiss Institute events in Palermo and presentation evenings in Rome.

• Engagement in meetings, workshops, studio visits, and desk visits.

• Opportunity to plan and present an event supported by the Swiss Institute, including online promotion.

• Access to the Swiss Institute’s international network and collaborations with residents from Rome, Milan, and Palermo Calling.

• Use of digital resources, collections of the Fondazione Sicilia, and its library.

• Intensive Italian language course to enhance integration and communication.

Financial Support

If applicants are unable to secure partial or full funding from cantons, municipalities, or foundations despite documented efforts, the residency offers:

• Up to CHF 1,500 per month for all or part of the residency in Palermo.
  This ensures residents can fully engage in the program and benefit from its resources.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Curators or researchers with experience in art history, contemporary art, architecture, history, or related fields.

• Demonstrated professional experience in both institutional and independent contexts.

• Particular interest in the Palermo and Sicily region.

• Swiss citizens or individuals with permanent residence in Switzerland who actively participate in Swiss artistic initiatives or are affiliated with Swiss higher education institutions.

• No age restrictions.

Why It Matters

The residency is significant because it:

• Promotes transdisciplinary innovation in curatorial and research practice.

• Supports international exchange between Swiss and Italian artistic and scientific communities.

• Enhances understanding of the cultural landscape of Palermo and Sicily.

• Strengthens professional networks for emerging curators and researchers.

• Contributes to the global dialogue on art, society, and interdisciplinary research.

How to Apply / How It Works

1. Confirm eligibility: Experience in art history, contemporary art, architecture, or related fields; ties to Switzerland.

2. Prepare a proposal highlighting curatorial or research objectives, interdisciplinary focus, and regional relevance.

3. Document funding efforts if seeking financial support from the Swiss Institute.

4. Submit application according to Swiss Institute guidelines.

5. Participate in residency activities: workshops, study trips, events, and networking.

6. Leverage available resources: digital libraries, institutional contacts, and Italian language courses.

7. Present or curate an event supported by the Swiss Institute during the residency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting applications without demonstrated professional experience.

• Failing to show relevance to the Palermo/Sicily context.

• Omitting evidence of funding attempts when requesting financial support.

• Neglecting the transdisciplinary focus between art and science.

• Providing proposals with unclear objectives or outcomes.

FAQ

1. Who can apply?
Curators and researchers with experience in art history, contemporary art, architecture, history, or related fields, with ties to Switzerland.

2. Is financial support available?
Yes, up to CHF 1,500/month if other funding sources are unavailable.

3. Are international candidates eligible?
Applicants must be Swiss citizens or have permanent residence in Switzerland and actively engage in Swiss artistic initiatives.

4. What activities are included in the residency?
Study trips, workshops, studio and desk visits, public events, Italian language courses, and international networking.

5. Is prior curatorial experience required?
Yes, applicants must demonstrate experience in both institutional and independent contexts.

6. Are there age limits?
No, there are no age restrictions.

7. Where is the residency located?
Primarily in Palermo, with activities extending to Rome, Milan, and online platforms of the Swiss Institute.

Conclusion

The Swiss Institute Curatorial Residency Program provides emerging curators and researchers with an immersive platform to advance transdisciplinary work in art and science. Through cultural immersion, international exchange, and access to institutional resources, residents can develop innovative projects, contribute to global dialogues, and strengthen professional networks in both Switzerland and Italy.

For more information, visit Swiss Institute.