Free Artist Residencies in South Africa

Bag Factory

Johannesburg, South Africa

The Bag Factory Artists' Studios in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a non-profit organization established in 1991 that provides studio spaces, residencies, exhibitions, and workshops for visual artists, fostering experimentation, innovation, and cultural dialogue.[1][3][7] It offers residency programs including self-funded AIR residencies and fully funded opportunities through partnerships like the Triangle Network, where artists produce work, engage with locals, and culminate in open studios or exhibitions.[2][5][6] Programs like Young/Unframed provide 3-month residencies pairing artists and curators to create new work.[1]

Greatmore Studios

Cape Town, South Africa

Greatmore Studios is an artist-led residency program in Woodstock, Cape Town, South Africa, established in 1998 to provide studio spaces and foster collaboration between local and international artists from diverse cultural backgrounds. It offers residencies that encourage creative experimentation, professional development, and community outreach through exhibitions, workshops, and public events. The program supports both sponsored and self-funded artists with facilities including studios, exhibition spaces, and a digital resource center.

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA)

Cape Town, South Africa

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) in collaboration with the University of the Western Cape (UWC) offers a year-long museum fellowship programme aimed at educating a new generation of art and museum professionals in Africa. This programme provides fellows with a comprehensive experience that includes academic coursework, practical work experience, and professional development. Participants engage in contemporary art discourse, curatorial practice, art education, conservation, heritage, and museology. The fellowship covers tuition, accommodation, basic health insurance, and a monthly stipend, while also providing opportunities for exhibitions, artist talks, and networking. The programme seeks applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, excellent writing skills, and a demonstrated interest in contemporary art and heritage from Africa.