Deadline: 18-Jan-2026
The Palermo Calling Residency by the Swiss Institute offers artists and researchers an immersive transdisciplinary experience in Palermo, Italy. Residents participate in study trips, workshops, events, and collaborative projects, gaining access to international networks, digital resources, and an intensive Italian language course. Financial support of up to CHF 1,500/month is available if external funding is insufficient.
Overview
The Palermo Calling Residency provides an interdisciplinary platform for emerging artists and researchers to develop innovative projects that bridge art, science, and society. Hosted at Palazzo Butera in Palermo, the program emphasizes collaboration, international exchange, and experimental practices, fostering dialogue across disciplinary boundaries.
Program Purpose
The residency is designed to:
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Promote transdisciplinary collaboration between artistic and scientific research.
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Facilitate international exchange between Switzerland, Italy, and beyond.
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Support innovative projects, experimental practices, and academic excellence.
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Engage participants in the global discourse on art and society.
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Enable residents to explore new methods, ideas, and perspectives beyond traditional disciplinary limits.
Key Benefits
Residents enjoy a variety of professional and cultural resources:
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Participation in the Rome, Milan, and Palermo Calling study trips.
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Engagement in Swiss Institute events in Palermo and presentation evenings in Rome.
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Involvement in meetings, workshops, studio visits, and desk visits.
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Planning and hosting an event supported by the Swiss Institute with online platform promotion.
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Access to the Swiss Institute’s international network and exchanges with residents in Rome, Milan, and Palermo.
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Cohabitation at Palazzo Butera, fostering a collaborative interdisciplinary environment.
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Use of digital resources and archival materials from the Swiss Institute.
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Intensive Italian language course for integration and enhanced participation.
Financial Support
Residents may request financial assistance if external funding from cantons, municipalities, or foundations is insufficient:
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Up to CHF 1,500 per month for part or all of the residency.
Who Is Eligible?
The program welcomes:
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Researchers, PhD students, and post-doctoral candidates in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and related disciplines.
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Artists in visual arts, design, architecture, film, literature, dance, theatre, or music.
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Individuals motivated to collaborate across disciplines and contribute to innovative projects that advance art and science.
Why It Matters
This residency is significant because it:
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Fosters cross-disciplinary innovation in art and research.
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Encourages cultural immersion in Palermo and engagement with Italian and international networks.
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Strengthens professional and academic collaboration.
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Contributes to the global dialogue on art, science, and society, supporting emerging talent in both fields.
How to Apply / How It Works
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Formulate a project proposal demonstrating transdisciplinary collaboration between art and science.
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Prepare documentation of academic or professional experience.
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Submit the application in accordance with Swiss Institute guidelines.
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Participate in the study trips, workshops, events, and exchanges.
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Reside at Palazzo Butera and engage in collaborative work with co-residents.
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Request financial support from the Swiss Institute if needed.
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Present or host an event supported by the Institute during the residency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Failing to show clear collaboration between artist and researcher.
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Submitting proposals with vague objectives or outcomes.
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Overlooking the importance of disciplinary integration.
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Omitting efforts to secure external funding when applying for financial support.
FAQ
1. Who can apply?
Artists in visual arts, design, architecture, film, literature, dance, theatre, or music; researchers at PhD or post-doctoral level in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, or related fields.
2. Is financial support available?
Yes, up to CHF 1,500/month if external funding does not cover costs.
3. What activities are included?
Study trips, workshops, events, studio visits, desk visits, Italian language courses, and networking.
4. Where is the residency located?
Palermo, Italy, with events in Rome and Milan, and access to the Swiss Institute network.
5. Is prior collaboration required?
No, but the proposal must clearly demonstrate the value of interdisciplinary collaboration.
6. Can international applicants participate?
Yes, applicants from any nationality can apply.
7. What is the duration of the residency?
Duration depends on the program schedule; participation includes study trips, workshops, and collaborative events throughout the residency period.
Conclusion
The Palermo Calling Residency offers emerging artists and researchers a transformative opportunity to engage in cross-disciplinary projects at the intersection of art and science. Through cultural immersion, professional development, and international collaboration, residents gain the tools, networks, and exposure needed to create innovative work and contribute to global dialogues on art, science, and society.
For more information, visit Swiss Institute.