Places I Inhabit, Places that Inhabit Me – Itinera Arte Artist Residency Program

Overview

Itinera Arte announces the second cycle of its international artist residency program, open to Brazilian and foreign contemporary artists at any stage of their careers. Grounded in movement and displacement, the program encourages sharing of knowledge in dialogue with Rio de Janeiro's cultural environment and the living historical landscape surrounding Guanabara Bay.

Theme

'Places I inhabit, places that inhabit me' invites sensitive investigations into the act of inhabiting as an aesthetic, political, and affective experience, exploring how bodies, gestures, and narratives intertwine with spaces and how these places shape and inhabit us.

Program Details

A total of 9 artists will be selected—7 paying participants and 2 full grantees. The program lasts two months, from March 5 to April 30, 2026.

What the Residency Offers

• Studio space in downtown Rio de Janeiro (25 m², equipped with a worktable, basic furniture, private bathroom, and internet access; open 24 hours)
• Weekly curatorial follow-up and portfolio review sessions
• Engagement with the local art scene through visits to studios, galleries, institutions, and exhibitions
• Conversations with visiting curators
• Cultural activities throughout Rio's historic city center
• Collective exhibition at the end of the residency
• Common areas for informal meetings and studio visits

Disciplines

The residency is open to contemporary artists working across painting, drawing, sculpture, installation, video, photography, and performance. Interdisciplinary and research-based practices are also welcome. Technical assistance is available for exhibition setup; additional equipment or specialized tools can be arranged upon request.

Fees and Support

• Residency fee: USD 1,000 for the entire two-month program (USD 500 per month)
• Brazilian artists receive a 50% reduction
• Two full scholarships available, covering the total program fee, based on socioeconomic, racial, and/or gender criteria; applicants must submit a letter of interest outlining motivation and financial need

Accommodation

Accommodation is not included in the residency program. However, Itinera Arte assists artists in finding suitable housing through partnerships with local guesthouses, hotels, apartments, and Airbnb hosts, offering affordable options within walking distance or short transport from the studios.

Application

Applications must be submitted via the online form on the Itinera Arte website. Applicants should include documents in PDF format (up to 10 MB total). Pre-selected residents will be contacted by December 8, 2025.

Expectations

Artists are expected to actively participate in collective dynamics including weekly curatorial meetings, portfolio discussions, and visits to studios and cultural institutions. Participation in the final collective exhibition is mandatory.