The Resonance Programme 2026 is now open for applications from curators, visual artists, and designers currently based in Nigeria. The prestigious residency programme is organized by the Cité internationale des arts in partnership with ART X Lagos and the Institut Français du Nigéria.
This international residency opportunity gives creative professionals in Nigeria the chance to live and work in Paris while developing their artistic research and connecting with leading cultural institutions and professionals in France. The programme is fully funded and designed to support creative exchange, artistic growth, and international collaboration.
Applications for the 2026 edition are open from May 7 to May 31, 2026, with selected participants traveling to France later in the year for a three-month residency.
About the Resonance Programme 2026
The Resonance Programme is an annual residency initiative created to support emerging and established creatives living and working in Nigeria. The programme welcomes professionals from different creative disciplines, including visual arts, curatorial practice, photography, digital arts, performance, furniture design, object design, and print or digital design.
The residency will take place at the famous Cité internationale des arts, one of the world’s most respected art residency centers. Participants will have access to a creative environment where they can focus on research, artistic production, networking, and collaboration.
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The programme also aims to strengthen cultural relationships between Nigeria and France by encouraging international artistic exchange and professional development.
Residency Categories and Dates
The programme offers three residency categories for 2026:
Curatorial Residency
- Residency Period: October 2 to December 28, 2026
Design Residency
- Residency Period: November 3, 2026 to January 28, 2027
Visual Arts Residency
- Residency Period: November 3, 2026 to January 28, 2027
Participants are expected to fully commit to the entire residency duration.
Who Can Apply?
The Resonance Programme is open to creatives of all nationalities who are currently living and working in Nigeria.
Curators
Applicants must:
- Be at least 23 years old by January 1, 2026
- Have at least five years of curatorial experience
- Have curated a minimum of two exhibitions
- Have at least two publications in recognized art media
- Be ready to fully participate during the residency period
Visual Artists
Artists from disciplines such as photography, performance art, digital art, and fine arts can apply if they:
- Are at least 23 years old
- Have at least two years of artistic experience
- Can present a strong portfolio
- Are available throughout the residency
Designers
Designers specializing in furniture, object, digital, or print design must:
- Be at least 23 years old
- Demonstrate professional experience in design practice
- Show commitment to research and creative development
- Participate fully during the residency period
Applicants must also possess a valid international passport with at least six months validity after travel.
What the Selection Committee Looks For
Applications will be reviewed by a professional jury. Beyond academic or professional background, the committee will pay close attention to:
- The quality and originality of the proposed research project
- The applicant’s goals for the residency
- Clarity and presentation of previous work
- Professional experience and achievements
- Proposed collaborations with French artists or institutions
- A clear residency work plan and timeline
Applicants with strong creative direction and a clear understanding of how the residency will benefit their work are likely to stand out.
Required Application Documents
To apply for the Resonance Programme 2026, applicants must prepare the following materials:
1. Resume or CV
A document outlining academic background, professional experience, and contact details. The maximum length is four pages.
2. Portfolio
Applicants must submit a portfolio containing recent and representative projects related to their work. The portfolio should contain between 5 and 20 pages.
3. Research Focus Statement
This document should explain the applicant’s artistic or research goals during the residency. It should also include:
- Planned collaborations
- Artists or institutions of interest in France
- Expected outcomes of the residency
The statement should not exceed three pages.
4. Optional Supporting Material
Applicants may include either:
- A short video link showcasing their work (maximum three minutes), or
- A recommendation letter supporting their application
5. Valid Passport
A passport valid for at least six months after travel is required.
Important Application Guidelines
Applicants should carefully follow all instructions before submitting their applications. Key guidelines include:
- Only one application per applicant is allowed
- Applicants can only apply for one position
- Portfolio images must be high-quality
- All folders and links must remain accessible
- All required documents must be submitted before the deadline
The application deadline is Sunday, May 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM WAT.
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Why the Resonance Programme Matters
The Resonance Programme provides a valuable platform for Nigerian creatives to gain international exposure, build professional relationships, and expand their artistic practice in a global environment.
Living and working in Paris allows fellows to experience one of the world’s leading cultural capitals while connecting with artists, curators, and institutions from around the world. The programme can also open doors to future exhibitions, collaborations, and global opportunities.
For artists and designers looking to strengthen their careers internationally, the Resonance Programme 2026 offers an important opportunity for growth, learning, and cultural exchange.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials early and submit strong, carefully organized applications before the deadline.
For more information, visit the Resonance.
