Kala Yatra International Artist Residency (KaYa Residency)

Kala Yatra is an artist-run, not-for-profit collective that curates concept-based exhibitions, socially relevant projects, and artist residencies while also engaging the community through workshops and educational outreach. By promoting artistic thoughts and practices, Kala Yatra fosters important momentum for social transformation.

Kala Yatra is a space for in-betweenness, fostering cross-border, cross-disciplinary, and multi-perspective exchanges in thought and practice. It is both a physical and conceptual journey - a process-driven exploration of art, culture, and Nepal’s socio-political landscape. Dedicated to diversity and equity, Kala Yatra provides a vibrant platform for artists from varied backgrounds, including those often underrepresented. It cultivates an environment of open dialogue and collaboration, encouraging brainstorming, shared creative processes, and the co-development of ideas.

Through informal events and initiatives, Kala Yatra celebrates diverse cultures and perspectives while fostering an inclusive community focused on sustainable growth and lasting connections. Artists may embrace a non-productive mode, free from deadlines and formalities, to research, reflect, and explore their practice.

In our artist residency in Kathmandu, Nepal - artists will benefit from a supportive art community and valuable resources. We prioritize not only residents’ endeavours but also the relationships and collaborations that may emerge.

Accommodation:
Residents stay in private, self-catering accommodations with access to the internet, a shared kitchen, dining area, and a small common workspace. The space comfortably accommodates four to five residents, and partners are welcome with prior communication and confirmation.

Outcome:
Open studios or presentations, such as exhibitions, art talks, screenings, publications, workshops, and other events, are potential outcomes of the residency. The resident artist may choose these based on their own requirements or decide to embrace a non-productive mode without any tangible product.

Who can apply?
Our residency programs are open to, but not limited to, the following professions:
Visual Artist, Painter, Sculptor, Ceramist, Print Maker, Performing Artist, Musician, Writer, New Media Artist, Curator, Film Makers, Theater Artist, Architect, Art Critics, Researcher etc. 

You are not listed above! Please send us an e-mail.

Deadline / When to apply?
We offer residency space year-round. If you're interested, please complete the application form according to our guidelines and email it to us.

The self-funded residency offers flexibility with year-round availability. Stays start at a minimum of 2 weeks and can extend to a month or more, depending on availability. While there is no specific deadline, we recommend giving yourself sufficient time to complete the necessary preparations, including submitting your application, arranging visas and travel, securing health insurance, and arranging payment/funding.

How to apply?
You can mail your application to: connect@kalayatra.org

Your application must contain the following:
1. Artist statement
2. CV/Bio, Portfolio/ Recent works (maximum 10 in PDF format) or a Website link
3. Copy of valid Passport and Application form

Residency Fee Structure
$ 200 (two weeks / 14 Days)
$ 400 (a month/ 30 Days)
$ 300 ( a month/ 30 Days - for SAARC Artist)*

*We offer promotional or reduced residency fee exclusively to artists who are both residents and citizens of SAARC countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka).

Please visit our website for current residency fee and other art related opportunities.

Location:
Our space is located in Imadol, offering a peaceful environment that is neither a busy market nor a densely populated residential area. It is an ideal location for those seeking tranquility, with the added convenience of easy access to famous heritage sites, galleries, and museums.

You can reach our space by bike from the Ring Road in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, taxis or ride-sharing services like Pathao are available. Nearby, you’ll find the Imadol Swimming Pool, the Asian Institute of Technology College, Champions Futsal, and several local stores for groceries and food items.

What we offer?
Residency Space: Private bedrooms and shared living and work areas.
Amenities: Access to internet, communal kitchen and dining area.
Networking: Opportunities to connect with other artists and institutions.
Presentations: Opportunities for exhibitions and artist talks at Kala Yatra and partner institutions.
Support: Assistance with navigating galleries and studios if needed.

What we do not offer?

Air tickets / Art supplies and materials/ Daily food and transportation/ Health insurance/ Laptops/ SIM card/ Personal concierge or logistical services/ Personal visa assistance/ Studio equipment beyond basic provisions/ Travel costs for trips

Please visit our Website for detailed information or simply write to us.