When does the residency program run?

The program runs about once a year – usually with 18 months between each session.

What studios and workspaces are available?

Residents have access to well-equipped and spacious shared studios for the duration of the residency. A range of sizes and facilities are available. The studios are assigned based on the requirements of each artist, in discussion with the organisers. We get in touch with shortlisted participants during the application process to ensure we can offer a workspace matched with the artists’ needs.

What is the accommodation like?

Residents will be accommodated in the downtown quarter of Budapest’s centre city, in private rooms in well equipped and secure shared apartments.

How much does the program cost?

Each session is priced slightly differently but costs approximately 2000–2500 EUR for the three months.

Can you help me apply for a grant?

Many of our residents are supported by private and public grants. While it’s your responsibility to organise funding for your residency, we provide supporting documentation and will give advice to prospective residents as much as possible.

What does the program cost include?

The program fee includes the accommodation, studio rental, and access to additional workshops, programs, and lectures.

What other expenses will I need to pay for?

You will need to pay for your own travel expenses, material costs, and other daily expenses. Some materials are available directly from BARTR at subsidised prices.

What will be expected of me?

  • Residents are expected to spend a large portion of the eleven weeks preparing a body of work for inclusion in the final exhibition.

  • Participation in the workshops and lectures is not compulsory, but strongly encouraged.

  • Residents will also be expected to document their progress and be active on social media throughout the residency and in the lead up for the final exhibition.

What other projects can I get involved in during the residency session?

The workshops offer a structured way to get involved with local projects and meet people currently working in creative areas in Budapest. Apart from the workshops, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with people and organisations of interest to you, and we do our best to facilitate exchange and cooperation with local initiatives. Collaboration, especially with view to mutual future opportunities, is quite central to the BARTR model. Residents from previous years have, for example, collaborated with a local contemporary dance troupe to film a video project, and created an ongoing radio show on a local station.

What are you looking for in the applications?

We are looking for independent and self motivated artists and art students who will use the time and space to focus on their work. There will also be plenty of opportunities to collaborate through workshops with artists based in Budapest so an open minded attitude and good communication skills are welcome.

How do I apply?

You can apply using the application form on the Open Calls page. If we don’t currently have an open call you can sign up to get a notification when we start accepting applications. Please don’t send your portfolio via email. We don’t accept applications over email or accept applications outside of a specific call.

Are there any other eligibility requirements?

We want to keep the call as open as possible but good English language skills are important to communicate.

From which countries do you accept artists?

We welcome applicants from around the world regardless of nationality. Non EU citizens should check their Visa requirements. We can provide a letter of support, and confirmation of acceptance to the program but it is the responsibility of the artist to make proper, timely arrangements with their local embassy. Nationals of some countries may require an invitation letter verified by the Hungarian immigration centre to apply for a Schengen visa. We will be in touch to supply you with this letter very early on, if you need one and are accepted.

How many artists come to the BARTR Program each year?

Each session, BARTR invites between 10–15 artists, depending on the volume and quality of the applications we receive.

What is the process if my application is accepted?

We will let you know the outcome of your application by the reply date, noted alongside the call information. A non-refundable application fee of 300 EUR is payable with your official notification accepting the offer. The full amount should be paid prior to the residency start date. Details about how you can make the payment will be sent out with your acceptance letter.

What happens if I need to cancel after I have accepted my place?

We really understand that unexpected things happen, and we do our best to accommodate a late change in plans. However, as we tailor each place to suit each resident, we will only consider a refund of the residency fee if the place can be filled with another resident. The initial deposit is not refundable.

I have more questions. How can I get in contact with you?

Send any questions to everything@budapestartr.space or get in touch through the contact form. We aim to reply to all emails within 48 hours.