Organizer Information
The Cité internationale des arts, in partnership with the Maison européenne de la photographie (MEP) and the Collection Gervanne + Matthias Leridon, presents a residency programme dedicated to emerging African photographers. The programme supports young African artists developing contemporary photographic practices and promotes international mobility, professional exchange, and artistic networking in Paris.
Title & Description
MEP x Collection Gervanne + Matthias Leridon x Cité internationale des arts
MEP – Collection Gervanne + Matthias Leridon – Cité internationale des arts Residency Programme is designed for emerging African artists working in photography. The residency aims to support projects that explore new forms of photography, while providing the selected artist with time, resources, professional guidance, and opportunities to expand their artistic and professional networks.
The selected laureate will undertake a three-month residency in central Paris, combining independent research and artistic creation with meetings and networking opportunities organized by the programme partners. The residency also includes financial support, international travel, visa costs, and a dedicated research-creation grant.
Categories
- Photography
- Contemporary/experimental photographic practices
- Artistic research and photographic projects
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be a national and resident of an African country.
- Be 25–40 years old at the closing of the call (October 1, 2026).
- Demonstrate at least three years of professional artistic activity.
- Have developed one or more creative photographic projects, such as an exhibition or publication.
- Hold a valid passport.
Duo and collective applications are accepted. However, collective applications receive one live-in studio, one monthly stipend, one research-creation grant, and one travel allowance.
Program Benefits & Awards
- A three-month live-in studio at the Cité internationale des arts' Marais site.
- €900 per month, including tax, as a living allowance.
- Coverage of monthly local transportation costs.
- A €1,000 research-creation grant, including tax.
- Coverage of international transportation to Paris.
- Travel and repatriation insurance.
- Visa fee coverage.
- Dedicated artistic support, meetings, and networking opportunities with programme partners.
A residency report is required at the end of the programme.
Application Fee
None
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 4 October 2026
- Results announced: October 2026
- Residency: November 3, 2026 – January 28, 2027
Location
Cité internationale des arts, Paris, France
Additional Details
Applications are evaluated by a professional jury comprising the directors of the three partner institutions and an invited specialist. Selection is based on the quality and artistic coherence of the work and the relevance or necessity of carrying out the proposed project in Paris.
The live-in studios can accommodate up to two adults and one child under 10; additional fees apply for accompanying persons. The organizers also state that the proposed studios do not currently meet accessibility standards for people with disabilities.