Fully Funded Delfina Foundation Residency Program in London Opens Applications for Southeast Asian Artists

The Delfina Foundation is now accepting applications for its fully funded 12-week Residency Program in London, scheduled to run from January 6 to March 27, 2026. This prestigious international residency program, located near Buckingham Palace, offers artists from Southeast Asia a unique opportunity for independent research, professional development, and engagement with the UK art scene. The program covers all costs, including airfare, accommodation, a living allowance, and a materials budget.

A Platform for Artistic Exploration and Growth

The Delfina Foundation's residency program is designed to provide a supportive and flexible environment for artists to develop their work, conduct research, and engage in meaningful dialogue with other resident artists, academics, scholars, and researchers. Through events, presentations, studio visits, and informal gatherings, participants will have ample opportunities to expand their network and gain new perspectives on their practice.

According to Dr. Emily Carter, an art historian specializing in contemporary residencies, "Residency programs like the Delfina Foundation's play a crucial role in fostering artistic innovation. They provide artists with dedicated time and resources, removing the everyday pressures and allowing them to fully immerse themselves in their work and explore new directions. The opportunity to engage with an international community of artists and experts is invaluable for professional growth."

Program Benefits and Financial Support

The Delfina Foundation Residency Program offers comprehensive financial support, ensuring that selected artists can focus solely on their creative endeavors. Benefits include:

No application or participation fees Round-trip airfare to London Reimbursement of visa fees A living allowance of £40 per day A materials budget of £1,000 A local travel pass Accommodation with shared facilities (kitchen, dining room, laundry room, bathroom, and library)

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Delfina Foundation Residency Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be citizens or residents living and working in one of the eligible Southeast Asian countries: Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei, Cambodia, Myanmar, Lao People’s Democratic Republic (LPDR), and Timor-Leste. Demonstrate a commitment to developing their work through research. Explain how the residency will benefit their career development. Possess proficiency in English.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply through the online application form on the Delfina Foundation website. The application requires the following information and documents:

Personal and contact information Job title and current employer Detailed description of artistic practice Explanation of motivation for joining the program CV Portfolio Contact details of two professional references Other material relevant to their work

The Significance of International Residencies in Artistic Development

International residencies have long been recognized as vital catalysts for artistic development. They offer artists the chance to step outside their familiar environments, encounter new cultures, and challenge their existing perspectives. This exposure can lead to significant breakthroughs in their work and contribute to a broader understanding of art in a global context.

"The Delfina Foundation, in particular, has a strong reputation for supporting artists working on socially engaged and politically relevant projects," notes cultural policy analyst, David Miller. "Their focus on fostering dialogue and exchange makes their residency program especially valuable for artists seeking to address complex issues and contribute to positive social change."

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Delfina Foundation Residency Program in London is August 17, 2025. Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well in advance of the deadline.

About the Delfina Foundation

The Delfina Foundation is dedicated to supporting artistic talent and fostering international exchange. Through its residency programs, exhibitions, and public events, the Foundation provides a platform for artists to develop their practice, engage with new audiences, and contribute to the global art community.