Organizer Information
The Fondation Bernard Grau Residency 2026 program is a major initiative designed to host professional artists at the Cité internationale des arts, a foundation of public utility based in Paris, France. This specific edition of the Fondation Bernard Grau Residency 2026 is organized in close collaboration with the Fondation Bernard Grau and the Académie des Beaux-Arts to promote the Cuban artistic scene and facilitate international professional mobility. The Académie des beaux-arts, one of the five academies comprising the Institut de France, aims to promote and defend France’s artistic heritage while encouraging contemporary creation. Together, these organizations provide a structured platform for Cuban creators to integrate into the European art market, fostering a sustainable cultural dialogue between Havana and Paris through the financial and professional resources of the Fondation Bernard Grau Residency 2026.
Title & Description
Fondation Bernard Grau x Cité internationale des arts: 2026 Residency for Cuban Artists
This prestigious Residency program is specifically designed to support the Cuban artistic scene by offering a long-term research and creation period in Paris. On the occasion of the bicentenary of Photography in 2026, the program places a special emphasis on experimental approaches to the image, as well as the discipline of Sculpture. The program encourages artists to explore new protocols, manipulate materials in unexpected ways, and push the boundaries of their respective mediums. It is not merely a production grant but a comprehensive professional experience that allows residents to interact with members of the Académie des beaux-arts and a diverse community of over 300 international artists.
Categories
- Photography: Primarily aimed at artistic, conceptual, or experimental practices (excluding photojournalism).
- Sculpture: Open to all forms of three-dimensional artistic expression.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this sponsored opportunity, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be of Cuban nationality.
- Location: Can be living in Cuba or abroad.
- Age: Must be over 25 years old.
- Experience: Must demonstrate at least 5 years of professional artistic activity.
- Exclusion: Artists who have benefited from a Residency or Grant in France lasting more than four weeks in the last five years are not eligible.
- Groups: Group applications (duos, collectives) are eligible but will share a single Studio and stipend.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Accommodation: A live-work Studio apartment at the Marais site of the Cité internationale des arts.
- Living Costs: A monthly Stipend of €850.
- Fund: A production Grant of €1,000 (subject to approval and supporting documents).
- Travel Costs: Coverage of return travel expenses to Paris.
- Mentorship: Artistic and professional support from the Cité team and networking with members of the Académie des beaux-arts.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- A professional CV (max 4 pages).
- A Portfolio of recent works (5 to 20 pages).
- A Project proposal or research plan for the residency (max 4 pages).
- A motivation letter highlighting the need for a Paris-based residency.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 January 2026
- Announcement of Results: March 2026
- Residency Period: From June 02 to November 27, 2026 (approx. 6 months).
Location
Paris, France
Additional Details
The selection committee will prioritize projects that demonstrate a high degree of experimentation and conceptual rigor. This is a rare opportunity for Cuban artists to engage with the historic and contemporary art scenes of France while being fully supported by the Fondation Bernard Grau.