Art Residency Application

We welcome applications from artists working with material-based and visual arts.

VArt Residency is open to artists whose practice is connected to material-based and visual arts, including sculpture, ceramics, installation, contemporary visual art and interdisciplinary practices involving physical materials and spatial work.

The residency is designed for artists who wish to develop studio-based projects while benefiting from access to workshops, production facilities, a focused working environment and the unique rural landscape of North Karelia.

The residency fee is €1,100 per month, which includes accommodation, full access to the studio and workshop facilities, and two firings in the electric kiln.

Artists are responsible for purchasing their own materials. We are happy to assist with sourcing suppliers and arranging the delivery of materials whenever needed.

Additional production processes, including wood-fired kiln firings and metal casting, are available by prior arrangement and are carried out with technical supervision. These services are charged separately, with fees calculated individually according to the scale of the project and the availability of the facilities.

We encourage applicants to discuss any specific technical requirements with us in advance so that we can help ensure the residency best supports the development of their work.

Who Can Apply

We are particularly interested in supporting:

• Sculptors
• Ceramic artists
• Contemporary visual artists
• Installation artists
• Interdisciplinary artists working with physical materials and spatial practices

Applicants must have the legal right to stay in Finland during the residency period.

Unfortunately, VArt is unable to provide visa sponsorship or immigration support.

Residency Season

The residency operates from March to November.

During the winter months, the residency is closed.

This seasonal structure reflects both the climate of North Karelia and the practical operation of the residency facilities.

What to Include in Your Application

To apply, please send us the following information:

• Your name and contact details
• A short biography
• A portfolio, website or link to recent work
• A short description of your artistic practice
• A project proposal or description of what you would like to work on during the residency
• Your preferred residency dates
• Information about any technical needs, materials or facilities required for your work
• Confirmation that you have the legal right to stay in Finland during the residency period

Funding

VArt is primarily a self-funded residency.

We do not currently provide direct grants, artist fees or production funding.

However, artists may apply for external funding through various programmes and organisations.

Through cooperation with HIAP and the Ukraine Solidarity Residencies Programme (HIAP) , selected artists may be eligible to apply for supported residency opportunities depending on programme availability and eligibility requirements.

How to Apply

Applications are currently accepted either directly via email or through the Ukraine Solidarity Residencies Programme (HIAP) application platform, depending on the programme.

Please send your application materials to:

Email: vartsilaarthouse@gmail.com