Artist Residencies in Switzerland

Arts at CERN

Based in Geneva, Switzerland

Arts at CERN is a pioneering artistic residency program that bridges the gap between the realms of art and science, offering artists of all disciplines the opportunity to engage with the cutting-edge research and community at the world's largest particle physics laboratory. This fully-funded residency provides a unique platform for artists to explore and be inspired by the complex world of fundamental science, fostering dialogues and creating new connections between artists and scientists. Through a variety of residency programs like Collide, Connect, Accelerate, and Guest Artists, Arts at CERN opens up opportunities for creative experimentation and inquiry, allowing artists to delve into the mysteries of the universe while contributing to a vibrant cultural exchange. Each residency is selected through open calls and a jury of cultural and scientific experts, emphasizing the program's commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Bibliothek Andreas Züst

Oberegg, Switzerland

The Bibliothek Andreas Züst offers four studio residency stipends in autumn 2024, providing a four-week stay for national and international cultural workers across various disciplines, including visual arts, literature, new media, music, theatre, design, architecture, film, and photography. Located at the Alpenhof panorama lodge in Oberegg, Switzerland, the residency includes free accommodations, meals, studio access, and travel costs. Applicants are encouraged to propose projects related to the library or its sub-areas, fostering research and creative work that explores cultural diversity.

Centro Internazionale di Scultura (CIS)

Peccia, Switzerland

Centro Internazionale di Scultura (CIS), based in Peccia, Ticino, Switzerland, offers a distinguished residency program for artists specializing in three-dimensional art. The Foundation awards five scholarships annually, running from May to October, providing artists with a comprehensive working environment. Each artist receives an atelier and access to workshops equipped for stone, wood, and metalworking, including a 20-tonne crane. Residents stay in the Casa degli Artisti, which offers individual living units with private facilities and shared kitchen amenities. The program emphasizes marble from Peccia, though artists can work with various materials. The residency fosters artistic exchange through visits and meetings with other artists and art professionals, enhancing networking and professional growth. Artists are expected to leave a piece of work for the Foundation, participate in events, and cover their living and travel costs.

Embassy of Foreign Artists (EOFA)

Geneva, Switzerland

The Embassy of Foreign Artists (EOFA) is an international residency program based in Geneva, Switzerland. Established in 2012, the organization provides logistical and financial support to artists, researchers, and cultural actors from around the world. It offers a collaborative environment where artists can work on their projects, from initial development to final presentation, with a focus on fostering intercultural exchange. The program is open to various artistic fields, including visual arts, music, literature, and more. EOFA leverages its extensive network to facilitate the promotion and dissemination of residents’ work, often collaborating with local institutions to support projects long-term. The residency aims to bridge scientific and artistic practices, making it an ideal space for creative exploration. Geneva’s neutral stance and historical significance as a hub for intellectual and political dialogue make it a vibrant location for the intersection of art, science, and culture.

La Becque

La Tour-de-Peilz, Switzerland

La Becque, nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva in La Tour-de-Peilz, Switzerland, offers a unique residency program for Swiss and international artists across a wide range of disciplines. The program, focusing on the intricate relationship between nature, the environment, and technology, encourages artists to explore these contemporary concerns through their artistic practices. La Becque provides three- or six-month residencies, emphasizing research, reflection, and the developmental phases of artistic work rather than the final production. This approach supports long-term artistic growth and fosters collaborations and interactions among residents and the broader creative community. Public events, such as discussions and open studios, complement the residency experience, offering visibility and engagement opportunities without being the sole outcome. Financial support includes accommodation, a monthly stipend, and travel costs, with additional support for childcare. La Becque's mission is to facilitate moments of reflection and transition in artists' careers, contributing to their development in an inspiring setting.

Paradiesli Artists in Residence Sigriswil (P.AiR.S)

Sigriswil, Switzerland

The Paradiesli Artists in Residence Sigriswil (P.AiR.S) offers an artist residency program designed to bring together talented artists from around the world. Located in the picturesque village of Sigriswil, high above Lake Thun and opposite the imposing Niesen mountain in the Bernese Oberland, this residency provides an inspiring cultural environment. Selected artists live and work at Gästehaus Paradiesli for two 7-week periods during the winter months. The residency welcomes artists from various disciplines, including literature, drawing, photography, and film/video. Emphasis is placed on creative exchange, encouraging collaboration and discussion within a dynamic artistic community. Participants are invited to leave an artistic “trace” at the end of their stay, and the residency culminates in a public exhibition of the works created.

TaDA - Textile and Design Alliance

Arbon, Switzerland

The TaDA – Textile and Design Alliance Residency offers a three-month residency for six creative professionals annually, welcoming both national and international artists to Arbon, Switzerland. This program facilitates collaboration with local textile companies, providing artists with accommodation, travel expenses, and a contribution to living costs. Residents work in the Kreativzentrum ZIK, a former textile and engine factory, gaining access to technology, infrastructure, and expert guidance. The residency aims to foster innovative projects and strengthen regional identity through artistic engagement with Eastern Switzerland’s rich textile and design culture. Residents present their projects at the public event “TaDA Spinnerei,” which includes discussions with international experts. The program encourages the development of new projects in various fields, including art, design, architecture, literature, and performing arts. TaDA is supported by the Cantons of Appenzell Ausserrhoden, St.Gallen, and Thurgau, along with various foundations and sponsors.

Villa Ruffieux

Sierre, Switzerland

Villa Ruffieux, established in 2011, is an artist residency located in the historical Château Mercier estate in Sierre, Valais, Switzerland. This residency provides a creative sanctuary for artists from diverse fields such as visual arts, music, literature, theatre, and cinema, including researchers and scientists. Artists are offered a unique cultural environment to focus on their projects, with the potential for engaging with the local community through public exhibitions and performances. The Villa promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and cultural exchange within its historic walls, supporting artists with accommodations, a personal workshop space, and a stipend, while they immerse themselves in their creative pursuits amidst the inspiring landscape of the Swiss Alps.

Villa Sonnenberg

Lenzburg, Switzerland

The Villa Sonnenberg Artist-in-Residence program, sponsored by the Villa Sonnenberg Foundation, offers professional artists a unique opportunity for creative and personal growth. Located in a historic Baroque villa in Lenzburg, Switzerland, the residency promotes intercultural exchange and international networking. Artists from all disciplines are invited to apply, with a focus on exploring themes such as generations and challenging social beliefs. The serene environment and supportive community provide an ideal setting for artists to find new inspiration and develop their work. Participants will enjoy modern amenities in a historic setting, including private rooms, shared studios, and common spaces for collaboration. The residency aims to create a vibrant artistic community where new approaches can be developed and shared. Artists will have the chance to publicly present their work at events in Lenzburg, fostering engagement with the local community.