Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are unable to accept applications for this Program. Should we resume this later, we would re-open the application process. Thank you for your interest!
Introduction
The Nai Taleem Art Residency at Sewagram is envisioned as a space where artists, educators, and craftsmen come together in the spirit of learning by doing. Rooted in Gandhian principles, the residency connects art, education, and craft to nurture creative self-expression, dialogue, and community well-being.
Vision and Values
Vision
Establish an equitable, non-violent, just and sustainable artist community that will be based on the core values of Nai Taleem.
Values
The seven values of Nai Taleem, as it applies to this Art Residency are as follows:
Head– Creating leading to knowing, leading to creating further and so on.
Hand– Creating through one’s hands in the process of true self-expression.
Heart– Creating art consciously of self and the world.
Honour– Creating with respect for the Individual, Society, Materials, Art Practice and the Self.
Humanity– Creating for all humans with no discrimination of any kind.
Health– Creating with environmental and social health cosciousness, with clear commerce with morals.
Hope– Creating with social consciousness, inspiring Hope.
Residency Details
Duration
Artist Residency will be for a period of 21 days to 90 days. If a longer duration is needed, it can be considered for a fellowship, on a case-by-case basis.
Timeline
Artist Residencies are planned to be held every year on the following dates
Feb 1- April 30
June 1-August 30
October 1- December 31
Eligibility
1. Artists must be practicing actively for 3-5 years and above.
2. Artists must have done socially related/aware works before.
3. Artists must be active and healthy to apply.
Medium/Material
Artist-In-Residence can work on any of the following mediums:
- Visual Arts – Wood, Metal, Bamboo, Clay, Textile, Fine Art, Murals, Photography, Mixed media, Installations, Sculpture, Print making and other sustainable materials.
- Performing Arts – Theatre, dance, music
- Literary Arts – Poetry, Fiction
- Curatorial – Curators, Archivists
- Education– Educators, innovative practitioners combining science and art
- Others
What is included in the Residency
- Artists-In-Residence will be provided free stay for the duration of the Residency in a shared living quarters with other artists.
- Artists-In-Residence will be provided basic groceries and Kitchen facility to be able to cook their own food at the residence.
- Artists-In-Residence will be provided access to a large Workshop Space, with studios available for listed mediums.
- Artists-In-Residence will be provided access to usage of Nai Taleem Premises.
- Artists-In-Residence will be provided a maximum budget of 5000 INR to purchase their own art materials.
- Artists-In-Residence are free to use the materials already available at the Residency Workshop Space, along with any natural materials available in and around campus with permission.
Residency Requirements
- Artists-In-Residence are expected to Exhibit their artworks / Talk/ Demonstrate their work at the end of their Residency period.
- Visual Artists-In-Residence are required to donate one artwork created during the residency, for non-commercial display purpose to Nai Taleem. The donated artwork will be displayed with due credits at the Nai Taleem Art workshop Space.
- Performing Artists-In-Residence are required to showcase a Performance/Part of performance at the end of their residency period.
- Other artists are required to conduct a talk/panel/Demonstration.
- If any of the artworks are not completed, Artists are still required to present the process and learnings for the benefit of the Nai Taleem community.
- Artists-In-Residence are expected to conduct one Interface/Workshop during the active Residency period. It could be but not limited to, Open Studio, Workshop, Demonstration, Community art etc.
Residency Structure
- Residency Begins with an Orientation Program of 3-4 days comprising of a detailed overview of Nai Taleem Principles, and visits to important museums/organizations in Wardha related to Nai Taleem.
- Around Day 15 of residency, there will be a midpoint review- to share the artists work in progress, and to address any grievances/coordination issues.
- Artist can schedule their community Interface at their will any time during the Residency period.
- Artists will have their final Exhibition/Showcase/Performance/Demo at the end of the Residency Period.
Residency Exclusions
- No Resource fee/Travel fee will be paid to the artists.
- No Travel fee/Travel Insurance will be paid for international artists.
- No Smoking allowed except in designated smoking areas.
- Zero tolerance towards Substances, Workplace Sexual harassment or any illegal activities.
Important Dates
| Application Deadline | 1 December 2025 |
| Selection Committee Shortlists Artists | 2 December- 14 December 2025 |
| Interviews Held | 15 December – 23 December |
| Invitations Sent | 25 December |
| Confirmations Obtained | 1 January 2026 |
| Launch of Residency | 1 February 2026 |
FAQs
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What is the Nai Taleem Art residency about?
The art residency is inspired by the Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of Nai Taleem based on the values of Head, Hand and Heart with a vision to establish an equitable, non-violent, just and sustainable artist community that will be based on the core values of Nai Taleem. A platform that brings together Artists, Craftsmen, communities and educators to co-create meaningful artworks.
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Who can apply?
We welcome:
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- Artists (visual, performing, craft-based)
- Educators and designers interested in innovative practices combining science and art
- Writers and Poets
- Curators, Archivists
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Do I need to be a professionally trained?
Not necessarily. While professional artists are encouraged, the residency also values local craftsmen, art practitioners and community practitioners who carry traditional knowledge and creative skills. They should have at least 3-5 years of active practice, with social engagement.
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Where is the Residency located?
Located at Nai Taleem Campus at Sewagram, Wardha district, Maharashtra.
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Can Non-Resident of India apply?
Yes, with a valid visa / permit to work as an Artist. Nai Taleem will provide the supporting documents upon selection.
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How long is the Residency?
21 days to 90 days.
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Is accommodation and food provided?
Yes, basic shared accommodation is provided with basic groceries and kitchen facility for making their own food.
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Is smoking and Alcohol allowed?
Smoking is allowed in restricted areas. No Substances and Alcohol allowed.
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Is there a participation fee or stipend?
No.
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Can I bring my own materials or instruments?
Yes, you are encouraged to bring your personal tools, instruments, or materials. We have existing materials in the Workspace, and a 5000 INR budget will be provided for the participating artist to purchase local materials.
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Will I get to work with the local community?
Absolutely! Community engagement is central to the residency.
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Will Residency support my travel expenses?
No, participants must support their own travel expenses.
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Will there be any orientation classes?
Yes, both Orientation and local site visits. More details will be provided upon selection.