Design Artist Residencies
Complete guide for design artists looking for residencies
Skip the reading — ask which design residency fits your practice. Ask in your own words — drawn from 2,300+ residencies and live open calls, grounded in real reviews.
Finding the Right Program
With 232 design residencies listed on Reviewed by Artists, finding the right program starts with understanding your needs. Consider whether you need financial support — 110 programs offer a stipend, and 85 are fully funded with both housing and stipend included.
What to Expect
Design residencies typically provide dedicated studio space, time to focus on your practice, and a community of fellow artists. Many programs also offer exhibition opportunities, critiques, and professional development. The duration varies from a few weeks to several months.
Application Tips
Most design residencies require a portfolio, artist statement, and project proposal. Be specific about what you want to accomplish during the residency and why that particular program is the right fit. Reading reviews from past residents can give you valuable insight into what each program values.
Top-rated design residencies
A cobert
Moià, Spain
Residències a cobert is an artist residency program in Moià, Spain, offering space and conditions for artistic and research projects in fields like visual arts, performing arts, literature, cinema, performance, science, technology, gender studies, and history, excluding musical projects. It supports small groups of 2-4 adults or creative collectives from any nationality, with stays of 1-8 weeks between March and October, including separate work space and housing. The program fosters dissemination, advice, and synergies with local cultural agents in a rural setting.
Argo Studios
Athens, Greece
An Argo Studios self-directed residency provides time and space to develop your practice in a social, supportive, and stimulating environment. They are open to artists, writers, performers, musicians, scholars, and any other creative discipline.
Delfina Foundation
London, United Kingdom
The Delfina Foundation Residency Program, based in London, offers opportunities for artists, curators, and writers to develop their practice, explore connections, and build collaborations. Residencies, lasting up to three months, are largely thematic and support both emerging and established cultural practitioners. The Foundation hosts 6 to 8 residents simultaneously in its central London location, providing flexible living and working space. Residents engage with international peers and the public, fostering artistic exchange and professional development. The program has a strong focus on critical issues in contemporary art and has established relationships with the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia.
Residencia Corazón (Corazon)
La Plata, Argentina
Residencia Corazón, located in La Plata, Argentina, offers a dynamic Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program for international artists, curators, and writers. The program provides a fully personalized experience for each participant, offering support in navigating the local arts scene, research, production, and post-production of works. Artists, writers, and curators from all disciplines are welcome, and residencies are available with or without exhibition opportunities. The residency offers accommodations in private rooms, access to studio spaces, and curated networking with local artists and institutions. While the residency does not offer financial support, it assists artists applying for grants in their home countries by providing necessary documents. Residencia Corazón offers a vibrant space for creative exploration and engagement in Argentina’s cultural scene.
TaDA - Textile and Design Alliance
Arbon, Switzerland
The TaDA – Textile and Design Alliance Residency offers a three-month residency for six creative professionals annually, welcoming both national and international artists to Arbon, Switzerland. This program facilitates collaboration with local textile companies, providing artists with accommodation, travel expenses, and a contribution to living costs. Residents work in the Kreativzentrum ZIK, a former textile and engine factory, gaining access to technology, infrastructure, and expert guidance. The residency aims to foster innovative projects and strengthen regional identity through artistic engagement with Eastern Switzerland’s rich textile and design culture. Residents present their projects at the public event “TaDA Spinnerei,” which includes discussions with international experts. The program encourages the development of new projects in various fields, including art, design, architecture, literature, and performing arts. TaDA is supported by the Cantons of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, St.Gallen, and Thurgau, along with various foundations and sponsors.
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.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a design artist residency?
A design artist residency provides dedicated time, studio space, and resources for artists working in design. Programs typically include accommodation, a supportive community, and sometimes stipends, allowing you to focus entirely on developing new work.
How many design residencies are there?
We list 232 design artist residencies on Reviewed by Artists. 110 offer a stipend and 85 are fully funded.
How do I apply to a design residency?
Most design residencies accept applications through their own website. You'll typically need a portfolio, project proposal, and CV. Application deadlines vary — some have rolling admissions while others have annual cycles. Read reviews from past residents to understand what each program is looking for.
What should I look for in a design residency?
Key factors include studio space suited to design practice, access to materials and equipment, the community of fellow artists, location, duration, and financial support. Our reviews cover all of these aspects to help you find the right fit.
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