Istanbul–Berlin Artist-in-Residence Program 2026–2027
Five-month artist residency in Berlin for professional visual artists living in Istanbul. Two grants available for artistic production and research.
The Istanbul–Berlin Artist-in-Residence Program 2026–2027 is a prestigious opportunity for professional visual artists based in Istanbul to undertake an intensive five-month period of artistic production and research in Berlin. Supported by the Berlin Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion, this program is implemented in collaboration with leading cultural institutions: Anadolu Kültür / Depo in Istanbul, and nGbK (Neue Gesellschaft für Bildende Kunst) and Kunstquartier Bethanien in Berlin.
The program offers two separate five-month residency grants:
- July 15 – December 15, 2026 (1 grant)
- January 15 – June 15, 2027 (1 grant)
Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be professional visual artists with demonstrated exhibition history and professional achievement in the field of visual arts. Artists should be able to articulate how an international residency experience would contribute to their career development. A minimum A1 level proficiency in German or English is required, and residency at the assigned accommodation for the program duration is mandatory.
Selection Process: An independent jury from Istanbul institutions will create a shortlist of 10–15 candidates from all applications. The final two award recipients will be selected by a jury composed of Berlin-based partner institutions. The Istanbul jury includes Dilek Winchester, Mert Sarısu, Merve Elveren, and Serdar Darendeliler. Shortlisted candidates will be notified in January 2026, with award recipients announced in February 2026.
This opportunity supports artistic development and provides access to Berlin's vibrant contemporary art scene, fostering cultural exchange between the two sister cities.