Organizer Information

Fundación Casa Wabi is a non-profit foundation established in 2014 by Mexican artist Bosco Sodi. Named after the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi—finding beauty in imperfection and transience—the foundation promotes social development and international cultural exchange. The primary facility, a world-renowned architectural landmark designed by Tadao Ando, is located on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca.

Title & Description

Fundación Casa Wabi – ArtReview Prize 2026: Open Call for Residencies.

This prestigious open call selects three artists to participate in a residency focused on cultural cross-fertilization. The core of the residency is a creative dialogue with the local communities surrounding Puerto Escondido. Residents are invited to "recharge" in a setting that values simplicity and nature while contributing to a reciprocal cultural exchange.

The Residency Experience:

  • Community Project: Every resident must propose and execute a project that involves a reciprocal exchange with local community members.
  • The Bitácora (Log): At the end of the stay, artists leave a "Bitácora"—a piece (video, song, painting, etc.) that reflects their time and practice at Casa Wabi for the foundation's archive.
  • Duration: Approximately 5 to 6 weeks.

Categories

All Disciplines (Visual Arts, Performance, Sound, etc.).

Eligibility

  • Global Scope: Open to artists of all backgrounds, ages, and nationalities.
  • Career Stage: Welcoming artists at any stage of their career.
  • Collectives: Teams of up to two members may apply if they have a history of collaboration.

Program Benefits and Awards

  • Housing: A private bungalow with a bathroom and three meals provided daily.
  • Workspace: Access to a studio space (open-air or closed) within the Ando-designed complex.
  • Travel: Local flight from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido included. (Note: Artists are responsible for international travel to Mexico City.)
  • Project Support: Resources for the approved community project.

Fees

  • Application Fee: None mentioned.

Application Requirements

Submit as a single PDF (under 25 MB) in English or Spanish:

  1. Community Proposal: A brief plan for a reciprocal project with local communities.
  2. Portfolio: Up to 5 images (or 5 video links) summarizing your practice.
  3. CV: Maximum 2 pages.

How to Apply?

Applications must be submitted through the official portal. Apply to the Casa Wabi Prize here.

Key Dates

  • Applications Open: May 11, 2026.
  • Application Deadline: June 14, 2026.
  • Winners Notified: July 27, 2026.
  • Public Announcement: July 31, 2026.
  • Residency Period: Scheduled within 2027.

Location

Mexico, Puerto Escondido (Oaxaca).

Additional Details

Selection is based on artistic quality, resonance with the foundation’s ethos, and the potential of the community project. Casa Wabi is an environment for reflection and social connection rather than high-volume production.

Website Link: Fundación Casa Wabi Events