International Desk : The fourth edition of the Villa Swagatam residency programme 2026 has opened applications for artists, writers, translators, designers and researchers from India and France.
The programme supports long-term cultural exchange between France and South Asia through immersive creative residencies.
The initiative comes from the French Institute in India and the Embassy of France in India. Applications remain open until May 31, 2026.
Programme Expands Across South Asia and France
Since its launch in 2023, Villa Swagatam has built a large residency network across India, France and South Asia. The programme now includes more than 30 residency partners.
Residents spend one to three months working in new cultural environments. The initiative supports literature, arts, crafts, design, translation and research projects.
This year’s edition focuses strongly on reciprocity. Indian residents will continue to receive opportunities in France while French artists engage with South Asian creative ecosystems.
New Residencies Added for 2026
The latest edition introduces several new partnerships and residency formats.
In France, new collaborations include:
- Musée d’Art Contemporain de Lyon for ceramic-based artistic experimentation
- Fondation Thalie for sustainable design and biodesign
- Institut d’études avancées de Nantes for research and humanities projects
The programme also launches its first literary residency in La Réunion.
South Asia Network Continues to Grow
Villa Swagatam will also expand its South Asian network in 2026.
New partnerships include:
- StoneX Global for stone and marble arts
- Red House for literature
- VAST Bhutan for graphic novel projects
- Cosmos Foundation for arts and crafts
The programme additionally introduces an itinerant literary residency across multiple Indian cities.
Programme Builds Long-Term Cultural Exchange
According to organisers, Villa Swagatam aims to create lasting collaborations rather than short-term mobility opportunities.
Over the past three editions, the initiative has supported nearly 100 residents across literature, visual arts, translation and crafts. Many participants later returned for exhibitions, publishing projects and collaborative work.
French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou said the programme helps creators build bridges between cultures, practices and communities.
Applications Open Until May 31
The 2026 edition runs under the India-France Year of Innovation framework. Organisers say the programme will continue adding collaborations and creative opportunities throughout the year.
Applicants can apply for residencies across literature, performing arts, visual arts, crafts, dance and critical research.
