The Arts Residency

Our international residency program invites emerging and established art professionals from a wide array of disciplines to live and work at the vibrant former residence of the multifaceted artist and social activist Vasco Branco, located in the very heart of town, for periods of one to three months, between November and May.

Aiming to stimulate experimentalism and co-creation, while contributing to promote international mobility in the arts, we encourage artists and curators to produce, research, connect and collaborate, as they dive into Aveiro’s charming surroundings.

An inspiring ecosystem

Former home of the ceramist, painter, writer, filmmaker and social activist Vasco Branco (1919-2014), the Aveiro Arts House is a historic residence with a notable tradition regarding arts and culture. Designed in the late 50s by Victor Palla —a famous Portuguese architect, designer and illustrator— the building is located in the very heart of Aveiro, facing a small park and Aveiro’s main museum.

Living and working at VIC

Artists in residence have their own private bedroom on the 2nd floor of the Aveiro Arts House, where they also have access to a fully equipped kitchen, two complete bathrooms and a shared working space with fast internet connection.

In the ground floor there is a small gallery-shop and, in the basement, a library and a cinema auditorium where artists can present their audiovisual works. Built in 1969, this auditorium was used as a clandestine cinema during the Portuguese dictatorship, and currently hosts occasional events such as movie screenings, small concerts and poetry readings.

Support & Networking

Having established a healthy network of partners with other creative projects, business and institutions, we are able to provide artists with extended workspace as well as exhibition and presentation venues throughout the city, such as galleries, theatres and other public spaces.

Besides basic support, our team can also help artists with specific tasks, such as the coordination of events and exhibitions, introduction to a particular person or community, or support with an ongoing project or research.

Funding and conditions

While this is not mandatory, artists in residency are encouraged to host at least one public presentation, performance, exhibition, workshop, or lead a similar event during their residency. Although occasional open calls for funded residencies may be published from time to time, we are an artist-run and mostly self-funded project, which means that artists will need to find their own funding for their residency program.  Please contact us for prices and conditions.