Artica Svalbard

Svalbard is a place where some of today’s most pressing questions—climate change, geopolitics, migration, and minority perspectives—are being explored. Artica Svalbard provides a unique environment for artistic research and creative expression, encouraging artists to challenge existing perceptions of the Arctic while engaging in new knowledge and ways of thinking.

Artica Svalbard is a leading non-profit arts and culture organisation, committed to facilitating artistic and cultural activities that inspire change. By offering a platform for discussion and collaboration, we encourage residents to raise awareness of Arctic issues and contribute to global conversations through their work.

Norwegian and Norway-based visual artists with an interest in the polar regions and/or global perspectives, conversations, and issues emanating from the High North are encouraged to apply.

Artist duos are welcome to apply. Please clearly state in your application whether you will need one or two apartments. Please note that the travel and per diem budget must be shared between both applicants (details of this are agreed after selection, as it is based on length of stay). Due to limited apartment size, we are unfortunately not able to host larger groups.

Family can join for the residency. We aim to be as inclusive as possible and support residents with family commitments or specific needs. In some cases, alternative apartment options may be available to ensure a comfortable stay. Please note your situation and any specific requirements in the application.

The residency has a minimum stay of at least six consecutive weeks, and the dates are determined according to your schedule and Artica’s accommodation schedule.

Selected residents will receive funding to support travel, accommodation, and a stipend to cover living expenses. Artists will be provided with a workspace and access to Artica Svalbard’s resources, helping them to develop and refine their projects while engaging with the unique environment of Svalbard.

Artica Svalbard believes that impactful residencies foster meaningful connections. Residents are encouraged to share their work through an artist talk, presentation, debate, lecture, or workshop, contributing to cultural exchange and dialogue with the local community in Longyearbyen.

The next application deadline is 17 August 2026.
All information in the application should be in English.
Applications are received through eApply, which will be open approximately two months in advance of the deadline. 

Following the deadline, OCA will select three artists to be Artica residents in 2027.

For more information about the residency:
https://www.articasvalbard.no/our-accommodationhttps://www.articasvalbard.no/residency-resources

If you have other questions about Artica Svalbard residency, please contact OCA at info(@)oca.no.