One World Residency - KIAR Residency India

Overview

KIAR – Kalanirvana International Art Residency – is an independent, artist-run space in Bhubaneswar, Odisha (Eastern India), dedicated to artistic creation, cultural exchange, and experiential immersion in Indian life and tradition. Since its inception in 2011, it has hosted over 400 artists from more than 50 countries. The residency is not just a studio space but a cultural journey where you live among local families, engage with Indian artists, and explore age-old traditions while creating contemporary art.

Residency Duration & Capacity

• Flexible stays from 2 weeks to 6 months
• Between 4 and 6 artists at one time

Disciplines & Mediums

KIAR welcomes applications from artists working in a broad range of disciplines including visual artists (painting, sculpture, mixed media), digital and new media artists, textile and fashion designers, writers and poets, performance and installation artists, filmmakers, photographers, sound artists, art historians and curators. Both emerging and established artists from across the globe are welcome.

Facilities

• Accommodation: Private rooms, shared rooms, private cabin or artist house (limited availability), rooftop tent (seasonal)
• Studio spaces: 2 shared art studios, painting and drawing areas, dance/performance rehearsal space, woodworking tools and equipment
• Amenities: High-speed WiFi, semi-urban green zone setting, kitchen access for self-cooking, washing machine, refrigerator, rooftop view-zone, common areas, weekend open discussions and art film screenings

Cultural Immersion

The residency organizes tailored cultural interactions including traditional Indian art workshops (Pattachitra, Tribal art), visits to local temples and craft villages, yoga and meditation sessions, participation in Indian festivals (Holi, Diwali, Ganesh Festival, Rath Yatra), and interactive cooking sessions with the community.

Exhibition & Showcase Opportunities

Artists staying over 25 days are offered curated exhibitions. All resident artists receive opportunities to present work through open studio days, public talks, workshops, or screenings. Work is published in residency catalogues, featured on social media, and listed in India's premier art directory ARTHUBin.com.

What Is Expected from Residents

• Artist talk, open studio, or cultural presentation
• Participation in at least one workshop or knowledge-sharing session
• Exhibition (for artists in residence for over 25 days)
• Cultural and city tour participation (optional but recommended)
• Respect for the residency space and shared community ethos

Selection Process

All applications are reviewed by the Art Resident Curator, Ashis Pahi, based on artistic quality and originality, relevance to the program's mission, and willingness to engage with the local community and context. A video interaction is conducted with each applicant for better understanding.