2027 Dresden Artist Exchange - Invitation Only - Greater Columbus Arts Council

Overview

Since 1994, the Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) has partnered with the State of Saxony to coordinate an annual Artist Exchange Program with Columbus' sister city, Dresden, Germany. GCAC hosts two German artists and arranges for two Columbus-area artists to travel to Dresden for an independent international residency experience.

Eligibility

This is an invitation-only opportunity. Invitations are extended to past recipients and finalists of GCAC's Visual Arts Fellowship, Media Arts Fellowship, Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson Fellowship, Artists Elevated, Film it in Cbus, and #ArtUnitesCbus. GCAC also invites Franklin County artists under age 35 nominated by previous Dresden residents. Artists who have previously traveled to Dresden with GCAC and students enrolled in or planning to enroll in an undergraduate degree or certificate program during the residency may not apply.

Key Dates

• June 29, 2026: Invitations emailed
• July 27, 2026: Applications due by 5 p.m.
• August 14, 2026: Selected artists notified
• January 13, 2027: Desired travel dates sent to GCAC
• April–November 2027: Residency travel window (60–90 days)

Residency Benefits

• Living and studio space for the entire residency (air conditioning is not standard)
• Pro-rated living stipend of $150 per day
• Economy-class roundtrip airfare between Columbus and Dresden (within an acceptable limit set by GCAC)
• Minimum 60 days, maximum 90 days
• Travel window: April 1 – November 30, 2027 (two selected artists' dates may not overlap)
• Valid passport required for three months beyond proposed stay

Program Expectations

Selected artists must act as representatives and ambassadors for GCAC and the City of Columbus. The majority of the residency should be spent in Dresden, though travel is encouraged. Artists are responsible for all materials, resources, and additional opportunities beyond what GCAC provides. Within three months of return, recipients must submit a final report.

Application Requirements

• 2–3 page PDF narrative addressing proposed project concept, why Dresden, specific cultural projects or resources of interest, relevant prior residency experience, and how the residency will further your artistic career
• Artist resume/CV outlining artistic career
• Up to 8 work samples (images or video files)

Selection & Notification

A three-person jury (including a previous Dresden artist, a Dresden Sister Cities Columbus member, and a GCAC board member) selects two awardees and one alternate. Applicants are notified by email of the decision.

Important Notes

Rooms/apartments are furnished and intended for single occupancy. If visitors travel with you, their accommodation is your responsibility. You are responsible for any change, cancellation penalties, or higher airfare costs for updating your reservation. GCAC is taking a conservative funding approach in 2026; grant amounts are lower than the previous year, though additional support may be available if revenues exceed projections.