Organizer Information:

This dual residency is co-hosted by two of the world's leading physics institutions: the Center of Gravity (CoG) at the Niels Bohr Institute (Copenhagen, Denmark) and the Astrophysical and Cosmological Relativity (ACR) department at the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics / Albert Einstein Institute (Potsdam, Germany).

Title & Description:

Applications are open for the CoG Arts and Science Residency 2026.

This program invites artists to engage directly with cutting-edge research in theoretical physics, astrophysics, and quantum gravity. The institutes welcome original, bold, and ambitious proposals that explore themes such as black holes, gravitational waves, and the concept of time. Up to two 3-month residencies are offered (hosted either at the Niels Bohr Institute or the Max Planck Institute).

Category:

Art & Science.

(Open to diverse artistic disciplines, including visual arts, music, literature, and performance).

Eligibility:

  • Who: Individual artists from all disciplines.
  • Focus: Projects must deeply engage with themes related to gravity, the cosmos, and fundamental physics.
  • Expectations: Artists must actively engage with the scientific community, coordinate a public external exhibit, and present a final piece of work (which may take the form of a donated artwork, a performance, or a musical piece) at the end of the residency.

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • At the Niels Bohr Institute (Copenhagen, Denmark): Travel costs and accommodation are fully covered for artists coming from outside Copenhagen. A stipend may also be offered on a case-by-case basis to help cover production expenses.
  • At the Max Planck Institute (Potsdam, Germany): A fixed remuneration rate is provided to cover costs associated with the collaboration, particularly travel, accommodation, and materials.
  • Both Locations: A highly participative environment featuring regular, direct meetings with leading scientists to discuss the artist’s project and work.

Application Fee:

Free.

Application Requirements:

Artists must submit their proposal as a single PDF document saved in the format: LastName_FirstName_Application. The PDF must include:

  1. A short description of the proposed project work (max 1 page, outlining the concept and plan).
  2. A motivation letter (max 1 page).
  3. A brief CV (max 3 pages, including the applicant's email address).

How to Apply?

Submit your formatted PDF application through the official portal on the Center of Gravity website. (Note: Applicants will not receive an automated confirmation email after uploading).

Key Dates:

  • Application Deadline: April 1, 2026.
  • Results Announced: July 1, 2026.
  • Residency Start Date: Expected to begin after August 2026 (exact details will be arranged with successful candidates).

Location:

Copenhagen, Denmark (Niels Bohr Institute) OR Potsdam, Germany (Max Planck Institute).

Contact Information:

Website: https://the-center-of-gravity.com/features/cog-arts-and-science-residency-2026/about-the-residency/