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Artists and cultural practitioners are invited to apply for a 1-3 month self-funded artist residency in Reykjavík, Iceland, providing studio space, accommodation, and opportunities for artistic research, collaboration, and public presentation.
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Get matched →The SÍM Residency is an international, nonprofit artist residency program in downtown Reykjavík, Iceland, run by SÍM – The Association of Icelandic Visual Artists. It welcomes approximately 200 artists and cultural practitioners from around the world each year. The program provides a sustainable living and working environment that encourages reflection, experimentation, and creative collaboration across visual arts, design, architecture, music, dance, performance art, creative writing, curatorial practice, cultural work, and scientific research.
Participants have access to private and shared studios, accommodation with common facilities, and opportunities for public presentations within a flexible environment. The residency is located a 10-minute walk from the old city center, surrounded by cultural landmarks including museums, galleries, libraries, supermarkets, and the University of Iceland. Each month, up to 20-22 artists create a lively collaborative atmosphere.
Residency duration is 1-3 months, with granted residency running from the third day of the first month to the last day of the relevant month. The SÍM Residency apartment includes 18 private bedrooms, a mix of private and shared workshop spaces, a large open project area for events and exhibitions, and shared common facilities (kitchens, bathrooms, showers).
Applications are open to individuals working across diverse disciplines. Applicants must hold a BA degree as the minimum education level; exceptions may be made for self-taught artists who demonstrate high professionalism, supported by a compelling CV and project proposal. Applicants must have proficiency in English, as it is the primary language of communication.
The SÍM Residency is self-funded. Artists are responsible for funding their own accommodation, work equipment, and materials. Professional workshop fees (sculpture studios, Fab Lab, ceramics, dance studios, sound recording) may apply for external facilities. The residency provides basic tools, some IT equipment, and recyclable materials for use.
The residency programme includes an orientation meeting, artist presentation on the SÍM Residency website and social media, and opportunities for public presentations and artist talks. Residency activities (Artist Talks, group exhibition, project presentations) are optional but encouraged. All residents must attend a mandatory private introduction meeting at the beginning of each month and a group cleaning session at the end of each month. Participants receive a SÍM membership card providing free entrance to local museums and galleries and discounts at art supply stores and cultural venues.
Every listing links to the organizer's official page. Always confirm deadlines, fees, and entry rules there before you apply.
The SÍM Residency fosters an open, respectful, and inclusive community welcoming artists from around the world. Artists are responsible for maintaining cleanliness of their bedrooms/studios and shared facilities. Any actions creating an intimidating, threatening, or hostile environment are strictly prohibited. Abusive or harassing behavior—verbal or physical—that disrespects personal characteristics or beliefs (sex, sexual orientation, race, national origin, religion, disability) will result in disciplinary measures, including immediate eviction. Applicants must demonstrate respect towards SÍM staff and fellow artists.
While the SÍM Residency was originally established for visual artists and is best suited to their needs, creators working with music, sound, dance, or performance are welcome to apply. The residency does not provide professional equipment or stage facilities for these practices. However, strong collaborations with local creators can offer workshops or resources to help realize art projects.