Open call: Bodhi Khaya Artist Residency 2026 programme

The residency is scheduled to take place from 11 to 25 October, while applications are open from 1 May to 15 June.

Founded in 2021, the annual two-week programme was established to provide artists with dedicated time and space to focus on their work and artistic practice. Organisers describe the initiative as a structured working environment centred on artistic production, dialogue and collaboration rather than a retreat setting.

The programme invites artists to develop ideas through engagement with materials, process and place, with participants working across disciplines including visual arts, performance, sound, movement and installation.

According to organisers, artists are encouraged to respond to themes linked to historical, political, ecological and personal perspectives while engaging with the surrounding environment as part of the creative process.

The residency also includes continued support beyond the programme period through curatorial guidance, exhibition opportunities and pathways to further professional development, including possible international opportunities.

Programme details include:

• Interested applicants should download the application for here.
• Application deadline: 15 June
• Residency dates: 11–25 October
• Open to emerging and mid-career artists
• Disciplines include sound, visual art, performance, movement and installation

Application fees:

• R250 (about $16) for South African and African artists
• EUR25 ($29) for international artists

The residency programme is run by artists on a voluntary basis and is supported through partnerships and application fees. Organisers said the initiative aims to contribute to the broader development of contemporary artistic practice in South Africa.

View the original call here.