2026 University of Johannesburg (UJ) Artists-in-Residence Programme for Artist-Scholars

Application Deadline: July 31, 2025

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Artists in Residence Programme. First launched in 2022, this pioneering initiative is designed to foster dynamic collaborations between creative practice and academic research. The programme offers a unique platform for artist-scholars to engage in meaningful exploration and experimentation across a broad spectrum of artistic and intellectual disciplines.

The residency is intended to support both emerging talents and seasoned professionals working in fields such as visual arts, performance, literature, design, and other creative domains. While applications are welcomed from candidates across the globe, the programme places special emphasis on artists who have an affiliation with, or whose work engages with, the African continent—reflecting UJ’s commitment to promoting diverse perspectives and amplifying African voices within global artistic and academic conversations.

Participants in the programme will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a supportive academic environment, gain access to institutional resources, and contribute to UJ’s vibrant cultural and intellectual life. Through this initiative, the University seeks to encourage innovation, critical dialogue, and the development of new forms of knowledge that transcend conventional disciplinary boundaries.

Interested applicants are encouraged to prepare their proposals thoughtfully and submit them before the deadline on July 31, 2025.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must hold a relevant post-secondary qualification (such as a diploma or degree) in their field of practice. To ensure impartiality and broaden the reach of the initiative, individuals currently affiliated with any South African higher education institution are not eligible to apply.

Eligible Fields of Creative Practice

The University of Johannesburg’s Artists in Residence Programme welcomes applications from practitioners across a wide range of creative disciplines, including but not limited to:

• Visual and Fine Arts
• Music
• Theatre
• Performance and Dance
• Design
• Film and Television
• Literary Arts

Artists working at the intersection of multiple disciplines or exploring new and emerging forms of creative expression are also encouraged to apply.

Programme Expectations and Duration

Participants selected for the residency are required to complete at least one major creative project during the course of their residency. The standard residency period is 12 months, though a 24-month timeline is available for applicants in the Film and Television or Literary Arts categories, allowing adequate time for more extended or research-intensive projects.

All completed works must align with the creative research output guidelines as defined by South Africa’s Department of Higher Education, ensuring that the residency supports both artistic innovation and academic contribution.

Residency Format and Financial Support

The programme offers flexibility in terms of participation, with both remote and in-person residency options available. However, access to physical resources on UJ campuses — including studio spaces, rehearsal venues, and offices — is limited and not guaranteed.

Selected artists will receive a monthly stipend of R10,000 (subject to statutory deductions). It is important to note that this is a stimulus grant, and no additional funding is provided for travel, housing, or day-to-day living expenses. Applicants are encouraged to make independent arrangements to supplement their residency if needed.

Selection Process and Criteria

Residency placements are awarded through a rigorous and competitive academic review process. Applications will be evaluated on the basis of:

• The applicant’s professional and artistic track record
• Evidence of previous creative outputs
• Strength and clarity of academic writing abilities
• The innovation, feasibility, and impact of the proposed residency project

Only candidates who demonstrate a high standard of excellence in both academic and artistic domains will be considered for selection.

Application

Click here to apply  

For more information visit

Uj Artists in Residence