Short Description

Transatlantic Stars brings European talent to meet American artists, local communities, and industry leaders — encouraging co-creation and building lasting relationships. By fostering dialogue and collaboration it contributes to a more connected transatlantic cultural space. These exchanges strengthen Europe’s cultural sector through new partnerships and perspectives, while giving American communities and artists opportunities to engage with diverse European voices, values, and approaches to practice.

The project consists of three strands: One for visual artists, one for musicians and one for filmmakers. Each strand blends creative exploration with structured guidance, industry engagement, and opportunities to share work with the public. Selected artists join a cohort-and-alumni network designed to sustain connections, spark new projects, and open long-term opportunities on both sides of the Atlantic.

Eligibility

  • An EU Member State Citizen with a valid passport. Citizens of all 27 official Member States are welcome to apply. Citizens of EU candidate countries are not eligible.
  • Confirmation of no criminal background.
  • Availability to travel to the U.S. for the program dates (April – early June 2026).

Each year, Transatlantic Stars supports artists in three sectors through on-the-ground experiences in the United States.

Artist Residency Eligibility

  • Visual Arts: Eight-week residencies rooted in communities across the United States, supporting new work and inviting audiences in through extensive public engagement.
  • Film: A two-week exploration of the American film world for EU film directors. A showcase at a major American film festival, an intimate retreat for exchange and mentorship, and a capstone immersion in Los Angeles, connecting artists with peers, mentors, and the U.S. industry.
  • Music: A two-week exploration of the American music world for EU musicians. Collaboration with U.S. peers in songwriting, recording, and live performance, alongside practical training and moments to share work with American audiences.
  • TRSP Artist Residency Program welcomes all visual arts mediums or arts disciplines with a strong visual component based in physical space. 2D, 3D, 4D, and multi-disciplines welcome. No film, music, or writing. Each resident artist must produce at least one work to be exhibited in Washington, D.C., which may become part of a permanent travelling collection. Please note that not all residency sites can accommodate all mediums. Artists will be selected and paired accordingly.
  • Work samples: 5–7 
  • Professional standing: Meet at least 3 of the 5 criteria below:
  1. Critical acclaim/industry recognition: awards, nominations, or fellowships from credible bodies or peers.
  2. Media coverage: features, interviews, or published/broadcast (including digital) content highlighting your work.
  3. Residency experience: participation in at least 1–2 artist residencies.
  4. Professional experience: at least two professional exhibitions or presentations (galleries, museums, stages, performance venues, etc.).
  5. Community engagement: collaboration with community entities, institutions, or municipalities to co-create a publicly beneficial project.

Submission Requirements

  • Professional biography
  • Publicity-ready images, including one headshot (with no copyright restrictions).
  • English proficiency (spoken and written).
  • Artist CV.
  • Responses to narrative questions.

How to Apply

Online Application

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Fully Funded Participation: Travel, accommodation, and core program costs covered, as well as offering artist stipends. 
  • Professional Growth: Mentorship, peer-to-peer collaboration, and learning tailored to each artist’s goals and discipline.
  • Industry Access: Curated introductions to U.S. cultural networks, venues, and sector leaders.
  • Visibility: Exhibition and presentation opportunities during artist residences, film festivals, and live performances, as well as digital promotion. 
  • Lasting Impact: New perspectives, relationships, and collaborations that strengthen artistic practice across the Atlantic.

Entry Fee

None

Location

United States

Timeline

  • Application Deadline: 28 November 2025

Website Link: https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/united-states-america/transatlantic-rising-stars-project-0_en

ResidencyAccommodationExhibitionMentorshipNetworkingProduction budgetStipendTravel costs