[Press release]

Pro Helvetia has a network of regional liaison offices in Egypt (for the Arab region), South Africa (for Southern Africa), India (for the Indian subcontinent), China (for mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau), and Russia. In order to enhance cultural exchange and artistic collaborations between Switzerland and these regions Pro Helvetia offers residencies in both directions. Swiss artists and cultural practitioners (e.g. curators, event organisers, mediators) in the areas of music, literature, visual arts, design and interactive media, theatre and dance are eligible to apply. At the same time, Pro Helvetia facilitates residencies in Switzerland for artists and cultural practitioners from China. New this year: studio residencies are also offered for Swiss visual artists (incl. performance, photography, new media and design) in New York in partnership with Swiss Institute.

Studio residency 2018

A studio residency (3 months) in China or, conversely, in Switzerland gives artists the chance to gain a broad insight into a different cultural environment. The aim of the residency is to find inspiration, establish networks and contemplate new projects and cooperations. In addition to a place to work and accommodation, Pro Helvetia will provide specific coaching. The Swiss Arts Council covers the cost of travel, insurances and per diem expenses. Applicants may benefit three times in total from a Pro Helvetia studio residency.

Selection criteria

-        convincing track record: personal artistic activity above and beyond regional level

-        context-related motivation

-        adequate foreign language skills

Applications

Applications can be submitted until 1 March 2017 via www.myprohelvetia.ch. Applications must be written in English.

Further information on www.prohelvetia.ch and Pro Helvetia Shanghai homepage www.prohelvetia.cn, and follow wechat account pro_helvetia.