Organizer Information
The Asia New Zealand Foundation Arts Experience Fund is a primary initiative of the Foundation (Te Kura Tūāpapa o Ahia), New Zealand’s leading non-partisan, non-profit authority on Asia. Founded in 1994, the Foundation’s mission is to equip New Zealanders with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in the Asian region. Their Arts Programme is a critical component of this mission, providing validated pathways for cultural exchange and professional growth. The Foundation acts as a cultural bridge, helping practitioners navigate Asia's diverse creative sectors. By offering financial support through this Grant, the Foundation ensures that New Zealand’s artistic community remains globally connected, fostering long-term partnerships that enrich the New Zealand cultural landscape.
Title & Description
Arts Experience Fund — Asia New Zealand Foundation (2026 Round)
The Arts Experience Fund is a strategic Grant designed to support New Zealand artists and arts practitioners in undertaking professional development, research, or networking projects across Asia. This fund is specifically intended for "immersion" rather than production; it empowers artists to attend masterclasses, conduct field research, or build relationships with Asian-based curators and collaborators.5 The purpose is to foster meaningful cultural ties and bring fresh, Asian-influenced perspectives back to the New Zealand artistic ecosystem. This Project is ideal for those looking to expand their global network and technical skills in an international setting.
Categories
- Multiple Disciplines: Open to all artistic forms, including Visual Arts, Performance, Music, Sound/Music, Literature, Writing, Craft, Digital, and Design.
- Art Management: Also available for curators and arts administrators seeking professional development in an Asian context.
Eligibility
- Nationality: Applicants must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.
- Residency: Must be currently residing in New Zealand.
- Experience: Open to professional artists and practitioners with a clear, established track record.
- Destination: The experience must take place in an eligible Asian country within the Foundation's mandate.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Grant: Financial awards of up to $5,000 NZD per applicant.
- Travel Costs: Funding can be used toward international airfares and regional transportation.
- Accommodation: Contribution toward lodging costs during the immersion period.
- Professional Development: The Fund covers registration fees for workshops, festivals, or conferences and related Living Costs.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Detailed Proposal: An explanation of the activity and its importance to your career.
- Professional CV: A summary of your artistic achievements and history.
- Budget Breakdown: A clear plan of how the up to $5,000 NZD will be allocated.
- Letter of Support/Invitation: Documentation from an Asian host, partner, or organization (where applicable).
- Portfolio: High-quality samples of recent artistic work.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 12 January 2026
- Project Period: Travel must generally be completed within 12 months of the award notification.
- Notification: Applicants are usually notified of the outcome within 6 weeks of the closing date.
Location
New Zealand
Additional Details
The Foundation emphasizes that this is an "Experience" fund. It is not intended for the shipping of artworks for an exhibition where the artist is not present. Applicants must demonstrate how their project will foster long-term engagement between New Zealand and Asia. Retrospective applications for travel already undertaken will not be considered.