Delfina Foundation and the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation invite contemporary visual artists born in Portugal or Portuguese-speaking African nations to apply for a fully funded 12-week residency in London in 2027.
16 September 2026
Open Call:
Applications are open for a 12-week residency at Delfina Foundation in London. The programme provides selected artists with dedicated time and space to develop their artistic practice through research, alongside opportunities for professional exchange and engagement with London’s cultural sector.
Residents will participate in guided visits to museums, galleries, non-profit organisations, artist-run spaces and studios, including visits to institutions outside London. The programme also includes presentations, studio visits, events, portfolio reviews, mentoring and opportunities to meet artists, curators, academics and researchers.
The residency forms part of Delfina Foundation’s Open Summer 2027 season, which focuses on independent research rather than a specific thematic programme.
Institutional Context:
Delfina Foundation is an independent arts organisation based in London that supports artists and curators through residencies, research, professional exchange and public programmes.
This residency is organised in partnership with the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation (UK Branch) and forms part of Delfina Foundation’s international residencies programme. Delfina Foundation runs four three-month residency seasons each year, dedicated either to open independent research or thematic collective research.
Eligibility & Criteria:
The opportunity is open to contemporary visual artists who:
- Were born in Portugal, Angola, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, Cape Verde or São Tomé and Príncipe.
- Are not currently based in the United Kingdom.
- Are seeking to develop their artistic practice through research.
- Can demonstrate how an international residency could contribute to their career development and strengthen their local networks.
- Are proficient in English, as interviews are conducted in English.
Applicants should be able to articulate a clear research direction and explain how the residency would contribute to their artistic and professional development.
Practical Information:
Programme: Delfina Foundation Summer Residency 2027
Location: London, United Kingdom
Residency dates: 28 June – 17 September 2027
Duration: 12 weeks
Application deadline: 4 October 2026, 23:59 BST
Fee: No application fee
Support: Fully funded residency, including:
- Return economy-class airfare
- UK airport transfers
- Reimbursement of visa fees, where applicable
- £40 per day living allowance
- £1,200 materials budget
- London public transport travel pass
- Accommodation in a private bedroom at Delfina Foundation’s residency house
Residents will also have access to professional development activities, including portfolio reviews, mentoring, studio visits and opportunities for exchange with artists and cultural professionals.
Applications & Queries:
Submit applications through Delfina Foundation’s online application form. The Foundation recommends that applicants read the Guidance Notes before beginning their application.
Application deadline: 4 October 2026 at 23:59 BST.
