Kathmandu international artists in residency (KIAR 2023)

Space A is Kathmandu (Nepal) based non-governmental autonomous, non-political, no- profitable, and the Artist Initiative with the goal of establishing a stable platform for critical analysis, reflections, open discussions, information exchange, collaboration, and interactive communication. It aims at contributing to interdisciplinary contemporary art practices by setting up research, discursive events, exhibitions, and educational, and residency programs.

Kathmandu international artist-in-residence program (KIAR) is an initiative of Space A, a significant hub in the field of contemporary art both locally and internationally. The goal of the KIAR is to create an intellectual space where the residents will get the chance to penetrate the local cultural and socio-political contexts, as well as to combine their artistic practices (research, production, etc.) with meetings, lectures, and other discursive events with local and international artists, cultural experts, critics, and curators.

Brief Description of Residency

Nepal is the Best Value Destination to travel to. Nepal’s cultural landscape is every bit as diverse as its physical one. The spectacular Himalayas comprise the highest mountains on earth and boast a surreal landscape of snow-covered peaks sure to leave a powerful impression. The Himalayan country of Nepal, situated between India and China, offers some of the best access to these mountain peaks, where landscapes vary from subtropical valleys (complete with banana trees) to alpine forests (home to grazing yaks).

Customs and traditions differ from one part of Nepal to another. A conglomeration lies in the capital city,  Kathmandu, where cultures are blending to form a national identity. Kathmandu Valley has served as the country’s cultural metropolis since the unification of Nepal in the 18th Century. A prominent factor in Nepali’s everyday life is religion. Adding color to the lives of Nepalese are festivals the year round which they celebrate with much pomp and joy. Food plays an important role in the celebration of these festivals.

Capital is surrounded by a valley full of historic sites, ancient temples, shrines, and fascinating villages. Kathmandu is an incredibly diverse historic city with breathtaking Newari architecture, and centuries-old Hindu and Buddhist religious sites. Stepping into Kathmandu is like stepping into another world that everybody should experience at least once in their lifetime. Kathmandu is a result of diverse cultures and lifestyles, a long history of faith and beliefs, and arts and architecture. Therefore, more than just a city, Kathmandu is a living museum.

KIAR is an opportunity to travel back in time and relive history as well as experience natural beauty. This year we are going to organize a one-month-long residency (30 days) and a two-month-long residency (60 days). There will be four Residency programs. Each time max. 2 applicants will be selected.

(* If participants are interested, KIAR will arrange 7 days of trekking during the residency program. But participants will be responsible for all expenses for Trekking. This year we have selected Langtang valley to Kyanjin Gompa trek and Annapurna Base Camp – ABC trek.)

Who can apply?

Visual Artist / Painter / Sculptor / Ceramist / Print Maker / Performing Artist / Musician / Writer / New Media Artist / Curator / Film Making / Theater Artist / Architecture / Art Critics /Researcher

Duration / Period of residencies (one month / 30 days or two months / 60 days)

1st period:  April

2nd period: May / June

3rd period: July / August

4th period: September

Residency conditions

*Internet Connection / A private room during the residency / Shared working space during the residency / Access to shared spaces (kitchen, toilet, bathroom) / Laundry (once a week) / Possibility to organize workshop/debate in the residency / Promotion through social media / Human and technical resources / Connections with the local cultural scene

Working language(s)

English / French / Farsi / Hindi / Bengali / Nepali

Expectations of the artist

Presentation / Workshop for children or college students (optional) / Exhibition or open studio or research presentation

Expenses paid by the artist

Residency fee / Travel / Supplies / Material / Daily expenses / Food / Volunteer Fee (if needed) / Health insurance / Expenses for Trekking (if participants are interested in trekking)