Brief Information
The Istanbul Berlin Residency Program is an exclusive cross-cultural exchange initiative supporting the artistic development of visual artists based in Istanbul. Designed to strengthen the long-standing sister city relations between Istanbul and Berlin, the program offers two fully funded five-month residencies at Kunstquartier Bethanien in Berlin. Selected artists receive a monthly stipend, a studio apartment, and direct access to Berlin’s vibrant contemporary art ecosystem.
This unique international residency aims to support artists looking to expand their practice, develop new projects, and connect with leading art institutions in Europe.
Key Dates & Details
Organisers: Ankara Kültür/Depo, nGbK Berlin, Kunstquartier Bethanien, Berlin Senate Department for Culture & Social Cohesion
Application Deadline: 31 December 2025 (6 PM)
Residency Periods:
15 July 2026 – 15 December 2026
15 January 2027 – 15 June 2027
Location: Berlin, Germany
Target Group: Visual artists based in Istanbul (non-students)
Funding Includes:
€2,000 monthly stipend
Rent-free studio apartment at Kunstquartier Bethanien
Institutional support from nGbK and partner organizations
Table of Contents
Overview
The Istanbul Berlin Residency Program supports visual artists seeking international experience and deeper engagement with European art networks. As part of Berlin’s cultural exchange initiatives, the residency is designed to foster artistic growth, strengthen global mobility, and promote long-term cultural dialogue between the two cities.
Through partnerships with Anadolu Kültür/Depo in Istanbul and nGbK in Berlin, artists benefit from curatorial guidance, connections to the local art scene, and access to events such as exhibitions, open studios, and artist talks. The residency provides a productive and inspiring environment at Kunstquartier Bethanien—one of Berlin’s most prominent art centers.
Participants will have the opportunity to research, develop new work, expand their professional network, and immerse themselves in Berlin’s dynamic cultural landscape.
Eligibility
To apply for the Istanbul Berlin Residency Program, applicants must:
- Be professional visual artists with a primary residence and active artistic practice in Istanbul
- Demonstrate a proven track record through exhibitions, awards, or notable artistic achievements
- Not be enrolled in any university program (students are not eligible)
- Be able to articulate how an international residency will support their career development
- Have basic knowledge of English or German (A1 level required at the start of residency)
- Be able to stay in Berlin for the full residency period (attendance is mandatory)
Artists employed by Anadolu Kültür/Depo or their family members are not eligible to apply.
Application Details
Residency Benefits
Selected artists receive:
- €2,000 monthly stipend covering travel, materials, and living expenses
- Rent-free studio apartment with kitchen and shared bathroom at Kunstquartier Bethanien
- Institutional guidance from nGbK, including networking support and visa assistance
- Opportunities to participate in exhibitions, open studios, and artist talks
- Access to artistic facilities, including bbk berlin’s printing and media workshops
Selection Process
- Depo Istanbul convenes an independent expert jury to shortlist 10–15 candidates.
- Final selection is made by a Berlin-based jury.
- Shortlisted applicants will be notified in January 2026, and final awardees in February 2026.
- Names of selected artists will be publicly announced.
Application Procedure
- Applications may be submitted in Turkish or English.
- Shortlisted candidates must submit an English version for the Berlin jury.
- All applications must be submitted via the official online form
- Artist portfolios must not exceed 10 pages.
- Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Applicants are strongly advised to obtain travel and health insurance for the duration of the residency.
Who can apply for the Istanbul Berlin Residency Program?
Visual artists residing and working in Istanbul with a proven professional track record. Students are not eligible.
What costs are covered during the residency?
Artists receive €2,000 per month and a rent-free studio apartment.
Do applicants need English or German language skills?
Yes — at least A1 level in English or German is required by the start of the residency.
When will selected artists be announced?
Shortlisted candidates: January 2026
Final selected artists: February 2026
Official Link
👉 View the full details and apply through the official website:
https://www.depoistanbul.net/en/open-call-istanbul-berlin-residency-program/
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