Artica Svalbard

OCA is a key partner of Artica Svalbard, one of Norway’s leading not-for-profit residency foundations. Based in Longyearbyen, Svalbard is a place for thinking slowly in a fast-changing world.

As key partners, we are responsible for nominating artists for their residency programmes and supporting them curatorially. We also play an active role in other projects as part of Artica Svalbard’s vision. In 2019, OCA co-curated Artica Listens.

Why 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 one of Norway’s leading non-profit arts and culture organisations, 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.

Who Can Apply?

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

Residency Duration

A minimum stay of six consecutive weeks is required, allowing artists to deeply immerse themselves in the Arctic landscape and community.

Funding and Support

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.

Community Engagement

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.

How to apply for residencies in 2027

Applications are now closed and will reopen in 2026.
OCA will begin accepting expressions of interest from visual and performance artists worldwide in 2026 for residencies taking place in 2027.

After the deadline, OCA will select three artists to be Artica residents in 2027.
The residency lasts at least 6 weeks, and the dates are determined according to your schedule and Artica’s accommodation schedule.

If you have other questions about Artica Svalbard residency, please contact OCA team member, Itzel Esquivel.