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

The Delfina Foundation is offering a fully funded 12-week residency program in London for artists from Southeast Asia, scheduled from January 6 to March 27, 2026. This prestigious program provides a unique opportunity for artists to conduct independent research, develop their practice, and engage with the UK art scene. Applications are open until August 17, 2025, and there are no application or participation fees.

A Platform for Artistic Growth and International Collaboration

The residency program, located in central London near Buckingham Palace, aims to support the professional development of artists by providing a supportive and flexible environment. Selected artists will have the chance to interact with other resident artists, academics, scholars, and researchers through various events, presentations, studio visits, and communal meals.

According to Dr. Anya Sharma, an art historian specializing in Southeast Asian contemporary art, "Residencies like the Delfina Foundation program are crucial for fostering cross-cultural dialogue and providing artists from the region with access to resources and networks that might otherwise be unavailable. The exposure to the London art scene and the opportunity to develop their work in a new context can be transformative for their careers."

Benefits of the Residency

No participation fees. Round-trip airfare to London. Visa fee reimbursement. Living allowance of £40 per day. Materials budget of £1,000. Local travel pass. Accommodation with shared facilities (kitchen, dining room, laundry room, bathroom, and library). Opportunities to participate in the UK art scene through various activities.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be eligible for the Delfina Foundation Residency Program, applicants must be citizens or residents living and working in one of the following Southeast Asian countries:

Singapore Thailand Malaysia Indonesia Vietnam Philippines Brunei Cambodia Myanmar Lao People’s Democratic Republic (LPDR) Timor-Leste

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to developing their work through research and articulate how the residency will benefit their career development. Proficiency in English is also required.

Application Requirements

Complete the online application form. Provide personal and contact information. Specify job title and current employer. Describe artistic practice in detail. Explain motivation for joining the program. Upload required supporting documents (CV, portfolio, two professional references, and other relevant materials). Provide direct links to a personal website showcasing artistic work. Include contact details for two professional references. Indicate any access requirements.

The Significance of Artist Residencies

Artist residencies have a long history of supporting artistic innovation and development. They provide artists with dedicated time and space to focus on their work, experiment with new ideas, and engage with a community of fellow artists and art professionals. The Delfina Foundation, in particular, has a strong reputation for fostering international collaborations and supporting artists from diverse backgrounds.

According to Professor Kenji Tanaka, a cultural sociologist specializing in the impact of arts funding, "Residencies play a vital role in the art ecosystem. They not only support individual artists but also contribute to the vibrancy and diversity of the art world as a whole. By providing artists with the resources they need to thrive, residencies help to ensure that art continues to play an important role in society."

A Legacy of Supporting Artists

The Delfina Foundation has consistently championed artists through its residency programs. It provides a platform for artists to explore critical themes, push creative boundaries, and build lasting relationships within the global art community. The fully funded nature of this particular residency removes financial barriers, making it accessible to a wider range of talented individuals from Southeast Asia.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply through the online application form available on the Delfina Foundation website. The deadline for applications is August 17, 2025. Artists are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application requirements before submitting their application.

This residency program represents a significant opportunity for artists from Southeast Asia to advance their careers, expand their networks, and contribute to the global art conversation. With its comprehensive support and commitment to artistic development, the Delfina Foundation Residency Program in London is a valuable resource for emerging and established artists alike.