Organizer Information
TEJA (Red de espacios culturales en apoyo a situaciones de emergencia) is a solidarity network of 15 public and private cultural institutions across Spain, including the Museo Reina Sofía, Casa Árabe, and hablarenarte. Founded in 2022 as a response to the invasion of Ukraine, TEJA's mission is to promote transnational cooperation by offering a "shelter" (the name Teja refers to the Spanish roof tile) for artists and cultural practitioners facing extreme socio-political vulnerability. The network provides legal, psychological, and creative support to ensure freedom of expression despite conflict.
Title & Description
TEJA 2026: Emergency Art Residencies for Palestinian Artists
In response to the current crisis in the Palestinian territories, TEJA is hosting three-month residencies for artists whose creative lives have been disrupted by conflict. The program aims to provide a safe, stable, and stimulating environment in Spain. Residents are encouraged to continue their creative research or production while engaging in dialogue with local Spanish networks, effectively bridging the gap between their home context and the international art scene.
Categories
Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Literature, Film/Video, Curatorial Research, Cultural Management, and Interdisciplinary Practices.
Eligibility
- Primary Target: Artists and cultural practitioners residing in the West Bank and Jerusalem.
- Emergency Status: Applicants must be in a situation of socio-political emergency or vulnerability that hinders their ability to work in their home country.
- Special Note on Gaza: Residencies for Gazan artists are currently managed by invitation only (coordinated through French partners due to evacuation logistics).
Program Benefits & Awards
- Financial Support: A monthly stipend of €1,300 and up to €1,000 for production expenses.
- Travel & Visa: Coverage of round-trip travel from Palestine to Spain, plus visa and health insurance costs.
- Accommodation: Private housing and dedicated workspace provided in the host city.
- Holistic Support: Legal assistance, financial counseling, and specialized psychological support.
- Mentorship: Creative and curatorial accompaniment provided by the specific host organization.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Artist Portfolio: Maximum 4 pages (under 5MB) highlighting the artist's practice and two relevant works.
- Biography: A brief artistic bio (maximum 1 page, included in the portfolio document).
- Motivation/Project Proposal: Outline of the research or work to be continued during the stay.
- Context: Evidence or description of the applicant's current professional and personal situation in the conflict zone.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 12 January 2026
- Notification Date: Late January/Early February 2026
- Residency Period: 3 months between March and July 2026
Location
Spain (Multiple Cities)
Residencies are hosted by various partner spaces, including:
- Madrid: hablarenarte / Planta Alta, Espositivo, Institute for Postnatural Studies.
- Barcelona: La Escocesa.
- Córdoba: Casa Árabe.
Additional Details
The selection process prioritizes the artist’s personal and professional situation first, followed by the alignment of their work with the themes of the host spaces. This is a "low-bureaucracy" call intended to act quickly in support of those whose identity and creative existence are under threat.