Organizer Information
The Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac is a world-renowned French museum in Paris, dedicated to the art and cultures of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Opened in 2006, it houses over 300,000 objects in its permanent collections, emphasizing indigenous and non-Western artistic expressions through exhibitions, research, and educational programs. The museum fosters interdisciplinary dialogues on sound, performance, and heritage, often collaborating with contemporary artists to explore sonic dimensions of cultural artifacts. This residency is organized in partnership with the Institut National d'Histoire de l'Art (INHA), a leading French institution for art history research, and is supported by the French Ministry of Culture. Together, they aim to bridge historical collections with innovative sound art practices, promoting global artistic exchange and innovation in museum contexts.
Title & Description
Sound Art Residency Call for Applications at Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac.
This four-month residency invites sound artists and composers worldwide to create new work inspired by the museum’s extraordinary collections from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Residents receive full access to ethnographic objects, historical recordings, and musical instruments, with the aim of exploring sound as a tool for cultural memory and contemporary expression. The residency includes a €20,000 grant, technical support, and a public presentation in the museum.
Categories
Sound Art, including electroacoustic composition, field recording, sonic installations, experimental music, acousmatic works, and interdisciplinary audio projects incorporating ethnographic elements.
Eligibility
Open internationally to emerging and mid-career sound artists, composers, and audio researchers over 18 years old. Applicants must demonstrate experience in sound art or related fields, with a focus on cultural or ethnographic themes. No nationality restrictions, but proficiency in English or French is preferred for collaborations. Collaborative applications from duos or small teams (up to three members) are encouraged, especially those involving interdisciplinary approaches.
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected resident receives a €20,000 grant to cover living expenses, materials, and production costs. Full access to the museum's collections, studios, and technical facilities is provided, along with accommodation support in Paris (stipend equivalent for housing). Travel reimbursement up to €1,000 is offered, plus health insurance coverage during the residency. Participants benefit from mentorship by museum experts, networking opportunities at public events, and a solo exhibition or performance slot in the museum's auditorium. Additional awards include publication of the work in the museum's catalog and potential for international touring.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English or French, up to 3 pages, detailing artistic background and relevant projects.
- Portfolio of 3-5 sound works (audio files up to 5 minutes each, with descriptions; total upload size 100MB max).
- Project proposal (800-1,000 words) describing the concept, research methodology, and how it engages with the museum's collections.
- Motivation letter (400-600 words) explaining interest in the residency and sonic heritage.
- Two letters of recommendation from professionals in the field.
- Personal information form, including availability and contact details.
All materials in PDF or specified formats.
How to Apply?
Applications should be sent to: residencesonore@quaibranly.fr
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 18 January 2026
- Notification Date: 15 May 2026
- Residency Period: September 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026 (four months)
- Public Presentation: December 2026 (exact date TBD)
Location
Paris, France
Additional Details
The selection committee includes curators from the museum, INHA representatives, and international sound artists, prioritizing proposals with innovative, respectful engagement with cultural materials. Artists must commit to ethical research practices, including sensitivity to indigenous protocols. Visa assistance is available for non-EU applicants. The program aligns with France's cultural diversity initiatives and may offer language support. Inquiries can be directed to the email above. Due to the museum's focus on preservation, all works must adhere to non-invasive installation guidelines.