AIR_MCUBE International Artists' Residency Nepal 2026

AIR_MCUBE International Artists Residency Program, hosted by Gallery Mcube in Lalitpur, is one of Nepal’s most pioneering and exceptional artist residencies. Established in 2011, this non-profit initiative has become a creative haven for artists from around the world, giving them the opportunity to explore, experiment, and immerse themselves in Nepal’s dynamic cultural scene.

Open to visual artists, writers, photographers, media artists, sound artists, composers, and multidisciplinary practitioners, AIR_MCUBE fosters an environment where creativity is nurtured, and dialogue is encouraged. Residents are supported not only in developing their own artistic practices but also in exchanging ideas, collaborating across disciplines, and immersing themselves in the vibrant local context.

Through presentations, interaction sessions, and critical feedback forums, participants gain valuable perspectives from peers, professionals, and the Nepali art community. More than just a residency, AIR_MCUBE is a transformative journey one that rewards artists with new insights, cross-cultural connections, and an expanded creative vision.

Facilities and Duration

The AIR_MCUBE International Artists Residency Program offers flexible stays ranging from one to three months, giving artists the freedom to choose a period that best suits their creative journey. Applications are open throughout the year in four cycles:

·January – March

·April – June

·July – September

·October – December

During the residency, artists enjoy a supportive environment within the inspiring setting of Gallery Mcube. Facilities include:

·Private, fully furnished rooms for comfortable living

·Spacious, well-lit shared studio spaces for creative work

·Shared kitchen and bathroom facilities

·Multimedia rooms and essential resources

·Laundry facilities for convenience

·A serene garden and terrace area, perfect for relaxation and reflection

·Dedicated Gallery Space for a curated final exhibition, showcasing residency outcomes to the local art community, critics, and the wider public.

For artists seeking external grants or scholarships, Gallery Mcube provides official documents and letters of invitation to support applications, ensuring accessibility to wider opportunities.

This balance of comfort, creative space, and administrative support makes AIR_MCUBE a truly rewarding residency experience.

Language

The residency program accommodates English, Nepali, and Hindi, ensuring smooth communication and meaningful collaboration among participants from diverse backgrounds.

Who Can Apply?

AIR_MCUBE welcomes artists and creative practitioners from all disciplines who are eager to explore, experiment, and engage in cultural exchange. Eligible fields include

·Visual Arts (painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, installation)

·Performance & New Media Art

·Sound & Music (sound art, musicians, composers)

·Photography & Film

·Writing, Curating & Research

·Theatre & Interdisciplinary Practices

This residency is open to emerging, mid-career, and established artists worldwide, fostering a vibrant community of diverse voices and practices.

Studio & Accommodation

Gallery Mcube offers artists a creative and comfortable environment, with spacious, naturally lit studios, a terrace, and a peaceful garden to inspire work and reflection. Residents have access to professional woodworking and metalworking tools to explore and realize ambitious projects.

Accommodation includes private, well-furnished rooms with shared kitchen, dining and bathroom facilities, fostering community and comfort. The residency also provides a gallery space for exhibitions, a café area, and high-speed Wi-Fi, creating a nurturing space for artistic growth and cultural exchange.

Outcome & Activities

The AIR_MCUBE International Artists Residency Program provides international artists with a transformative platform to expand their creative practice, gain international exposure, and build meaningful collaborations with Nepali artists and artisans. Hosted by Gallery Mcube, the residency offers a curated program designed to enhance artistic growth, foster cross-cultural exchange, and broaden professional networks.

Participants benefit from cultural tours across the Kathmandu Valley, gaining firsthand inspiration from Nepal’s rich heritage and traditions. Studio visits and workshops with local artists and community members provide opportunities for skill sharing, creative dialogue, and collaborative projects.

Artists also gain media visibility through features in Nepali newspapers and online platforms, helping them connect with a wider audience. The residency culminates in a curated final exhibition, showcasing participants’ work to both local and international audiences. Each artist donates a selected artwork to Gallery Mcube, which becomes part of the gallery’s annual group exhibition, ensuring ongoing recognition and engagement with the global art community.

Fees & Application Process

The AIR_MCUBE International Artists Residency Program is offered at US$800 per month, which includes private room accommodation, fully equipped kitchen and dining, high-speed Wi-Fi, shared studio space, gallery exhibition space for five days, and dedicated gallery assistance to support the creative journey.

Artists are responsible for personal expenses such as food, art materials, transportation beyond the gallery, and any additional studio space. Flexible arrangements are available for shorter stays. Optional cultural tours, trekking, and guided experiences outside the Kathmandu Valley can also be arranged at an additional cost.

To apply, email gallerymcube@gmail.com with:

• CV/Portfolio
• 10 recent artwork images (JPEG format)
• Project plan (approx. 200 words)
• Copy of valid passport

Join AIR_MCUBE 2026 for an inspiring and transformative residency in Lalitpur, Nepal, expand your artistic practice, engage in meaningful cultural exchange, and showcase your work to a global audience.