Organizer Information:

Since 2016, Modzi Arts has been a groundbreaking, innovative arts institution promoting Zambian art and culture. Located in a recently restored 1970s building in Lusaka, it houses two galleries, a Zamrock museum, a kitchen, an organic art farm, a performance studio, a DJ studio, a library, and living spaces.

Title & Description:

Applications are open for the Modzi Artist-In-Residence 2026.

This residency aims to disseminate traditional and contemporary Zambian artistic narratives by inviting artists to experiment, research, and exchange practices. Modzi Arts connects residents with the local cultural scene through targeted mentoring, networking with cultural actors in Africa, and weekly public presentations. The residency period lasts between 1 and 3 months (from May to November 2026) and culminates in a final presentation (e.g., an open studio, exhibition, reading, or performance).

Category:

Multidisciplinary.

(Open to visual arts, music, design, performance, curation, and art research).

Eligibility:

  • Who: Emerging to professional artists.
  • Scope: Open to local (Zambian), regional (African), and international artists.
  • Language: The working language of the residency team is English.

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Workspace: Individual studio spaces for up to 4 concurrent artists.
  • Accommodation: On-site accommodation in a shared house (for up to 3 people), allowing for personal interaction between artists and the local community.
  • Support: Targeted artistic mentoring, networking (art tours, studio visits, art dinners), and access to the library, art collection, and tools.
  • Meals: Daily lunch is included.

Application Fee & Program Costs:

  • Application Fee: Free to apply.
  • Residency Fees: This is a self-financed, fee-based residency. (Note: Modzi Arts can help put artists in touch with financial partners to seek external funding).
  • Pricing Structure (Per Month):
    • Zambian Artists (Non-Members): Studio K2500 / Accommodation K2500.
    • African Artists (Non-Members): Studio $300 / Accommodation $350.
    • International Artists (Non-Members): Studio $700 / Accommodation $700.
    • Specialized Rates: Research residencies are $900. Online-only residencies are $300. Discounted studio rates apply for Modzi Arts Members.

Application Requirements:

To apply, artists must submit:

  1. A presentation of the artistic project (max 800 characters including spaces).
  2. A significant portfolio from the last 2 years (max 10 pages with captions).
  3. A Biography (max 400 characters) and CV (max 2 pages).(Note: Selection is based strictly on the artistic process and relevance/quality of the project, not on nationality, gender, or age).

How to Apply?

Submit your application materials as outlined on the official Modzi Arts website via their application portal.

Key Dates:

  • Application Deadline: April 12, 2026, at Midnight CAT.
  • Feedback/Notification: April 17 – April 26, 2026.
  • Residency Period: 1 to 3 months between May and November 2026.

Location:

Ibex Hill, Lusaka, Zambia.

Contact Information:

Email: assistant@modziarts.com