Bikalpa Art Foundation is a dedicated platform for nurturing young artistic talents from around the world. We are committed to fostering creativity and cultural exchange and provide a space for emerging artists to thrive. Our Artists in Residence Program was established in 2013 to support artists and creative thinkers of all genres.

Bikalpa Art Foundation's artists-in-residence program is a cornerstone of our mission to nurture artistic talent and contribute to the vibrant arts ecosystem.

We offer a six-week annual, partly funded program for emerging artists under 30.

Through this programme, we aim to provide artists with a creative sanctuary to explore their artistic vision and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of Nepal.

Join us as we create a dynamic hub for artistic exploration and collaboration. 

Detailed information about our "Annual Residency Program for Young Artists."

The Bikalpa Art Foundation’s Annual Residency Program offers a transformative experience for emerging artists under 30.

This partly funded six-week intensive program provides a structured environment for artistic exploration, experimentation, and growth.

At the same time, it also demands full dedication and commitment from the residents.

This intensive program enables us to curate focused residencies, offering invaluable mentorship and opportunities.

In return for this comprehensive support, residents are encouraged to contribute to the foundation, such as donating a piece of artwork to ensure the program's sustainability and inclusivity.

We are committed to fostering a supportive community where young talents can thrive.

Selected artists will be immersed in a dynamic program that includes mentorship, workshops, and opportunities for collaboration.

We seek committed individuals with a strong artistic vision and a clear understanding of their project goals.

The rigorous selection process emphasises the applicant's artistic vision, demonstrated skills, and a well-articulated project plan.

Accommodation information

The residence accommodations are arranged at the Bikalpa Art House. Residents will be provided with a private suite tiny house that includes a separate washroom and a simple pantry for basic food and drink preparation.

Studio Information

Residents will be provided with a shared studio space and a maker’s studio workshop.

Our maker’s studio workshop is equipped with metal and woodworking tools. It will be available to the residents upon advance booking and approval from the manager.

Paid by Host

Our residency program primarily supports the development of projects in a focused environment with effective coordination and management.

The residency provides artists with the following facilities and services:

• Accommodation
• Studio Space
• Access to Maker's Space Workshop
• Mentorship
• Gallery rental and opening reception expenses for exhibitions
• Networking opportunities with the local artistic community of Nepal
• Internet connection
• Assistance in organizing workshops, presentations, and open studio exhibitions
• Documentation and social media promotion

Paid by Artists:

Artists are responsible for the following expenses: 

• Visas
• Air tickets
• Accident and Health Insurance
• Art supplies and other materials
• Daily food and transportation
• Mobile phone/SIM card laptop/ computers

Location

Our residencies take place at the Bikalpa Art House located in Chobhar, within a 30-minute travel time from central Kathmandu, a scenic, beautiful location with commanding views of both the majestic mountains and the Kathmandu Valley.

It has fine air, stunning topography, and a major affinity with the Buddhist and Hindu religions from ancient times.

It is the location at which the Buddhist celestial Bodhisattva Manjushri (meditational deity) discovered Kathmandu Valley, then a lake. 

Through Manjushri’s power (including cleaving a gorge at Chobhar, where there are also famous caves) the lake was drained, and in this distant time, the location for what in ages to come to the existence of Kathmandu Valley and its three cities; Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur.