Deadline: 13-Feb-2026
The Nafasi Art Space FEEL FREE Grant and Incubation Programme supports bold, experimental artistic projects that strengthen Tanzania’s contemporary arts ecosystem. Selected initiatives receive 18–30 million TZS in funding alongside incubation, mentorship, exhibition opportunities, and long-term professional support through the Nafasi Academy.
Funding, Incubation, and Mentorship for Experimental Arts Projects in Tanzania
The FEEL FREE Grant and Incubation Programme is a flagship initiative by Nafasi Art Space designed to support innovative, meaningful, and experimental artistic ideas. The programme combines financial grants with structured incubation, education, mentorship, and public engagement to shape the future of Tanzania’s arts ecosystem.
What Is the FEEL FREE Grant and Incubation Programme?
The FEEL FREE programme provides selected artists, curators, and cultural practitioners with funding and professional support to develop and present impactful projects. It is delivered through the Nafasi Academy, a leading contemporary art learning and exchange platform in Tanzania.
The programme prioritizes projects that challenge conventions, explore new artistic approaches, and contribute to social dialogue.
About Nafasi Academy for Contemporary Art
The Nafasi Academy aims to strengthen access to cultural rights in Tanzania by serving as a learning programme for emerging artists, curators, and arts managers. It provides a strong foundation in conceptual art practices while offering opportunities for collaboration, artistic exchange, and professional development.
Nafasi Academy as a Creative Space
As a physical space, the Nafasi Academy includes:
• Three artist studios
• A large classroom and seminar space
• A reading and research library
• A large production workshop
• An art supply shop
• An exhibition gallery
• An amphitheatre-style cinema and screening space
The centre was developed through a co-creative design process involving community input and continues to evolve through active participation by Student Members.
Nafasi Academy as Education and Exchange
As an education and exchange programme, the Academy functions as a training platform for emerging artists and cultural workers from underrepresented communities.
Participants benefit from:
• Small cohort-based learning
• Intensive theoretical modules
• Exchanges with International Artists in Residence
• Regular mentorship sessions led by professional Tanzanian artists and curators
• Guidance from Nafasi Alumni members
This structure equips participants with the skills needed to integrate into local and international art communities.
Nafasi Academy as a Public Platform
As a platform, the Academy provides exhibition and showcase opportunities that allow artistic and curatorial work to be publicly presented. These exhibitions are designed to encourage conversation, critique, and reflection, fostering social dialogue through artistic expression.
Grant Funding and Number of Awards
Selected projects under the FEEL FREE programme will receive:
• Grant amount: 18 to 30 million Tanzanian Shillings (TZS)
• Number of projects supported: Approximately 15 to 18 initiatives
Funding supports project development, production, and presentation within the Nafasi ecosystem.
Curriculum and Incubation Structure
The FEEL FREE incubation programme is anchored in the Nafasi Academy curriculum, which explores the role of the curator in relation to:
• Self, space, and time
• Artists and artistic processes
• Audiences and public engagement
Core thematic areas include:
• Criticality and subjectivity
• Historical and spatial awareness
• Contemporary artistic contexts
• Curator–artist relationships
• Inclusion, access, and sustainability
• Professional development in the arts
Technical Mentorship and Skills Development
The programme is supported by technical mentorships covering:
• Analysis and critique
• Arts administration and management
• Art as a community-based practice
• Research methods and concept development
• Art history and contemporary discourse
These mentorships ensure both creative and operational project sustainability.
Who Should Apply?
The FEEL FREE Grant and Incubation Programme is suited for:
• Emerging and mid-career artists
• Curators and cultural practitioners
• Arts organizers working in experimental or socially engaged practices
• Practitioners from underrepresented communities
• Applicants with bold, future-facing artistic ideas
Why This Programme Matters
The FEEL FREE programme strengthens Tanzania’s arts ecosystem by investing in experimentation, inclusion, and long-term artistic growth.
Key outcomes include:
• Increased access to cultural rights
• Support for innovative and experimental art
• Professionalization of artists and curators
• Stronger public engagement through the arts
• Sustainable artistic careers and networks
How the Programme Works
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Applicants submit a project proposal aligned with FEEL FREE objectives
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Selected initiatives receive grant funding and incubation support
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Participants engage in Academy modules and mentorship sessions
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Projects are developed using Nafasi facilities and resources
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Completed works are presented through exhibitions or public showcases
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Ongoing support continues beyond the incubation phase
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Submitting underdeveloped concepts without research or clarity
• Ignoring public engagement and audience considerations
• Treating funding as standalone support rather than part of incubation
• Limited participation in mentorship and curriculum activities
Application Deadline
• Application deadline: 13 February 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the FEEL FREE Grant?
It is a funding and incubation programme supporting experimental artistic projects through grants and professional mentorship.
How much funding can a project receive?
Each selected project may receive between 18 and 30 million TZS.
How many projects will be supported?
Approximately 15 to 18 initiatives will be selected.
Is the programme only for visual artists?
No. The programme supports multidisciplinary artistic and curatorial practices.
Does the programme include mentorship?
Yes. Participants receive structured mentorship from professional artists and curators.
What happens after the programme ends?
Participants continue to receive support and may become Nafasi Studio Members or establish themselves as professional arts practitioners.
Conclusion
The Nafasi Art Space FEEL FREE Grant and Incubation Programme 2026 is a comprehensive opportunity for artists and curators seeking funding, mentorship, and public platforms for experimental work. By combining financial support with education, incubation, and engagement, the programme plays a vital role in shaping the future of Tanzania’s contemporary arts ecosystem.
For more information, visit Nafasi Art Space.