Call for
Inlaks Residency Program at NIROX Foundation – India
Application Deadline:
20 November 2024
About Organisation
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation has been a key contributor to nurturing artistic and academic talent in India since 1976. Known for its commitment to providing transformative international opportunities, the foundation supports individuals who display exceptional talent across various creative and scholarly fields. With a mission to invest in the personal growth and international exposure of Indian citizens, the foundation has collaborated with global institutions to deliver meaningful programs.
In partnership with the NIROX Foundation and the Centre for Indian Studies in Africa at the University of the Witwatersrand, this initiative reflects the Foundation’s continued dedication to cultural exchange and artistic development. The NIROX Foundation, based in South Africa, is internationally respected for hosting interdisciplinary residencies that connect artists with rich local ecosystems and global perspectives. The Centre for Indian Studies in Africa contributes academic depth and intercultural engagement, enriching the experience for participating artists.
Together, these institutions offer a unique opportunity for Indian visual artists to immerse themselves in a new environment where creativity, dialogue, and cultural interaction are fostered. This collaborative residency encourages the development of new work and international exposure, while supporting emerging and mid-career artists from India in expanding the horizons of their creative practice.
About the Grant
This unique residency, offered through a partnership between the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation, NIROX Foundation, and the Centre for Indian Studies in Africa, is designed to nurture the creative growth of Indian contemporary visual artists. The program offers a six to seven-week residency in South Africa, focused on providing a comfortable and stimulating environment where artists can research, create, and explore.
The residency covers international travel and production costs, along with living arrangements, enabling artists to fully immerse themselves in their practice without financial burdens. The setting allows for engagement with diverse local communities, artists, educational institutions, and the region’s natural environment. Artists are also introduced to key institutions, professionals, and cultural sites, fostering both personal and professional development.
Residents are encouraged to develop their work through exhibitions, performances, and interdisciplinary interactions. They may also participate in interviews, podcasts, studio visits, and creative documentation that emerge organically from the experience. While ensuring artistic freedom and privacy, the residency promotes collaboration, critical reflection, and creative exploration in a rich multicultural context.
This grant offers not only practical support but also the space and platform to deepen one’s artistic vision through international exchange, collaboration, and exploration in South Africa’s vibrant creative landscape.
Who can Apply?
The residency is open to Indian citizens who are currently residing in India and have a background in contemporary visual arts. Eligible applicants should be emerging or mid-career artists whose practice spans any discipline within the contemporary visual arts, such as painting, sculpture, installation, photography, video, mixed media, or performance.
To apply, the candidate must have been born on or after 1st January 1990, making the opportunity specifically tailored for younger artists aiming to expand their international exposure. A strong command of the English language is essential, as this will facilitate communication with fellow artists, mentors, institutions, and local communities during the residency.
Applicants should not have received any previous grant from the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation for an overseas project. The foundation places high value on artistic integrity and the ability to grow creatively in a cross-cultural environment. Therefore, individuals who demonstrate curiosity, a willingness to engage with diverse contexts, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of their practice will be given preference.
This opportunity is ideal for artists seeking a creative and culturally immersive experience that can stimulate new ways of thinking, creating, and collaborating across borders and disciplines.
How to Apply?
Interested applicants must follow the application guidelines provided by the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation. The application should include a portfolio, artist statement, project proposal, and personal details that reflect the applicant’s eligibility and creative vision. All submissions must be complete and submitted before the deadline to be considered. Applications will be reviewed by a panel of experts for final selection.
Application Deadline
The final date to submit applications for this residency opportunity is 30 June 2025. Ensure all required documents and proposals are submitted well in advance for timely consideration.
Last Date To Apply
All applications must be received by 30 June 2025. Submissions made after the deadline will not be accepted or reviewed by the selection committee.
Grant Amount
The residency fully covers international travel, production costs, and living arrangements for a period of six to seven weeks, providing comprehensive financial and logistical support to selected Indian artists.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
