Short Description

HIAP – Helsinki International Artist Programme invites international artists and arts practitioners of all disciplines to apply for 3 month residencies in Winter/Spring/Autumn 2026 at our studios in Suomenlinna and Cable Factory, Helsinki.

HIAP offers time and support for artists to develop new work in dialogue with the local art scene. We encourage experimental, cross-disciplinary practices across all art forms. The residencies can be applied for by artists, collectives (apartments can accommodate 2-4 persons) and arts practitioners. Family members are welcome in all our locations.

Residencies are self-directed and process-oriented, allowing for open-ended research and experimentation. There is no obligation to produce finalised work.

Eligibility

This call is for artists living and working outside of Finland (including those with Finnish nationality) – calls for Finland-based artists will be released soon. Artists and arts practitioners from all disciplines are welcome to apply. We encourage applications from individuals and small groups at all career stages.

Family members are welcome in all HIAP residences. There is one pet-friendly residency apartment in Suomenlinna Studios (30 sqm) and one pet friendly studio in Cable Factory (63 sqm).

Submission Requirements

  • Brief outline of your professional background and biography (up to 250 words)
  • Motivation statement (up to 250 words)
  • Work Plan (optional)
  • Portfolio/examples of previous work (max. 10 images or 3 video/audio files) provided as an external link (no upload optional available).
  • Indication of your preferred residency period(s)
  • Indication of your preferred residency location(s)

How to Apply

Online Application

Program Benefits & Awards

The residency durations are between 1-11 months. The residencies for artists are typically 3 or 11 months, and for curators 1-2 months. The residencies are arranged with numerous partner organisations and the residents are chosen via open calls or by invitation.

The residency venues are located on Suomenlinna island and in Cable Factory in Helsinki. Suomenlinna island is a 15 minute ferry ride away from Market Square in central Helsinki.

Residents have 24/7 access to HIAP facilities in Suomenlinna – Community Room, Project Space, Equipment Room and Wood Workshop. The residents can borrow HIAP equipment (video projectors, sound systems, etc) based on availability. Residents can also book the HIAP Community Room for their self-organised events or gatherings. The weekly residency community gatherings take place at the Community Room in Suomenlinna.

Entry Fee

None

Location

Helsinki, Finland

Timeline

  • Application Deadline: 21 July 2025
  • Residency Periods:
  • Winter 2026 7 January – 6 April 2026
  • Spring 2026 13 April – 6 July 2026
  • Autumn 2026 17 August – 16 November 2026

Website Link: https://www.hiap.fi/open-call/hiap-international-artist-in-residence-programme-open-call-2026/