Artist Residencies in Germany
Complete guide for artists looking for residencies in Germany
Germany's artist residency landscape is as varied and dynamic as its art scene, spanning from bustling urban centers to serene rural locales. In cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Leipzig, artists find themselves at the heart of Europe's avant-garde art movements, with residencies like the Berliner Künstlerprogramm des DAAD offering resources and networks that propel creative projects to new heights. Munich and Düsseldorf also host vibrant art scenes, where residencies provide a platform for innovation and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Beyond the urban environment, Germany's countryside and smaller towns offer unique residency experiences. Programs like the Kunstlerhaus Lukas in Ahrenshoop and the Bauhaus Residency in Dessau invite artists to immerse themselves in Germany's rich artistic heritage and natural beauty, fostering a deep connection to place and history. The German residency network is characterized by its support for a wide range of artistic disciplines, from visual arts and sculpture to literature and performance. This diversity reflects Germany's open and experimental approach to contemporary art, encouraging artists to explore new ideas and forms of expression. With a strong emphasis on cultural exchange and interdisciplinary dialogue, German residencies are pivotal in shaping the careers of artists from around the globe, making the country a key destination for creative development.
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Artist in Residence Munich
Munich, Germany
NEBYULA and Rosa Stern Space e.V., in cooperation with the Department of Arts and Culture of the City of Munich, offer a visual arts residency at Villa Waldberta or Ebenböckhaus through the Artist in Residence Munich program. This residency supports artists across various disciplines, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, film, video, digital art, and performance, or a combination of media. Selected artists receive a monthly grant of €1,200 and a public transportation ticket. The residency fosters artistic development and cultural exchange, providing an inspiring environment for creative work. Applications are evaluated by a jury, and the selected candidates are expected to fulfill contractual requirements set by the City of Munich.

Callie’s
Berlin, Germany
Callie’s is a non-profit experimental institution in Berlin dedicated to fostering creativity and cultural exchange through its residency program, exhibitions, and public programs. Housed in a former machine factory in the Wedding district, Callie’s offers private studio spaces, a movement studio with a sprung floor, a cooperative sound studio, and a dedicated writing room. The residency is self-guided, allowing artists at any stage of their careers to explore new ideas without production requirements. Artists-in-residence can also request on-site accommodation in micro-apartments, designed with handmade and custom elements. Callie’s fosters an open and interdisciplinary environment, with periodic informal gatherings, networking opportunities, and access to Berlin’s rich cultural landscape. While the residency covers workspace and resources, it does not provide direct funding for travel or materials. The program is open to visual artists, musicians, choreographers, writers, poets, and researchers, supporting a wide range of creative practices. Residencies typically last six months, with some flexibility for shorter stays.
Spreepark Art Space
Berlin, Germany
Spreepark Art Space is a Berlin-based international residency program dedicated to interdisciplinary artistic research within a unique urban-natural setting. Hosted in the Eierhäuschen, a historic riverside building adjacent to the reclaimed Spreepark amusement park, the residency provides an inspiring environment for collectives exploring connections between people, art, and the environment. It specifically welcomes international groups of four who do not live in Berlin or Brandenburg, offering space for collaboration, experimentation, and public engagement. The program emphasizes sustainability, artistic research, and creative approaches to ecological and urban transformation. Residents are supported with complimentary housing, travel cost coverage, and a fixed living stipend. The residency culminates in a group exhibition at the Eierhäuschen the following year, showcasing research-based outcomes. Spreepark Art Space maintains a strong commitment to inclusion, welcoming applications from BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and disabled artists, and offers visa support for non-European participants. It serves as a dynamic platform where art, planning, and nature converge within Berlin’s evolving cultural landscape.

TAKT
Berlin; Leipzig; Zeitz, Germany
TAKT Artist Residency is an independent arts organization based in Berlin, Germany, known for fostering the growth and exchange of artists internationally. Founded in 2007, it operates in the tranquil Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood, a hub of artistic activity and cultural exchange. The residency offers various programs, including artist-led critiques, studio visits, and German language classes, aimed at enriching the participants' experience. Artists benefit from both structured programs and the freedom to explore personal projects, culminating in a group exhibition. TAKT supports a diverse range of disciplines from visual arts to literature, promoting a vibrant creative environment. The residency aims to integrate artists into the local art scene, providing them with the tools and community needed to expand their practice.

Künstlerdorf Schöppingen (Kunstlerdorf Schoppingen)
Schöppingen, Germany
Since its founding in 1989, the Künstlerdorf Schöppingen in Germany has supported international artists through its residency program. Located in two historic manor houses from the early 19th century in Münsterland, close to the Dutch border, it offers a serene rural setting for creative work. The program awards around 40 grants annually in visual arts, literature, and composition, hosting artists for two to six months. Künstlerdorf Schöppingen emphasizes cross-disciplinary artistic exchange and personal and professional development in an international dialogue. The facilities include a garden, communal kitchen, workshop, library, gallery, and exhibition hall, fostering a variety of artistic processes and interactions. The program is known for its collegial advice, knowledge exchange, and non-competitive environment. The residency program is open to international artists of all ages and is selected by expert juries. In addition to the residency, Künstlerdorf Schöppingen organizes events like the CAP program to discuss artistic practices and strategies. An alumni program promotes ongoing exchange among former residents, and the center publishes an annual edition documenting the residency fellowships and programs.

PACT Zollverein
Essen, Germany
PACT Zollverein's residency program, running since 2002, is a cornerstone of its mission, offering a nurturing ground for professional artists from around the world. Specializing in dance, performance, media arts, and music, the program fosters a vibrant exchange between practice and theory. Residents enjoy a unique blend of independence and potential collaboration, benefiting from studio space, accommodation, financial support, and technical assistance. With a commitment to sustainability, PACT encourages eco-friendly travel and supports barrier-free and family-friendly residencies. The program, celebrated for its contribution to artistic and scientific exploration, is a testament to PACT Zollverein's role as an Artists’ House, emphasizing the importance of sharing and developing new work within a supportive community.
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Frequently asked questions
How many artist residencies are there in Germany?
We currently list 113 artist residencies in Germany on Reviewed by Artists, with real reviews from artists who have attended.
Are there funded residencies in Germany?
Yes, 59 residencies in Germany offer a stipend. 54 of these are fully funded with both stipend and housing included.
How do I apply to an artist residency in Germany?
Most residencies in Germany accept applications through their own website. Visit each program's listing on Reviewed by Artists for direct links, application details, and reviews from past residents to help you decide if it's the right fit.
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