Artist in Residence 2026

About the Open Call

The Rijksmuseum's annual Artist in Residence programme for 2026 offers selected artists access to its collections, library, archive, laboratories, and expert staff. The residency encourages outstanding candidates to submit research-based artistic projects that reflect on, respond to, and interact with the Rijksmuseum’s collections, history, activities, or function as an institution. Artists are expected to create an artwork or artistic intervention for presentation within the museum building, its gardens, or online. The program is open to artists working in any discipline, with no restrictions on genre, medium, subject, or format, provided the work adheres to museum policies and safety guidelines. The residency runs from 1 February 2026 to 31 January 2027.

What is Offered

The selected Artist in Residence will receive a stipend of €45,000 (paid monthly in 2025), a maximum production budget of €60,000 for artwork creation, and a travel budget of €5,000. An additional monthly allowance is provided if the artist does not have access to a studio. Artists will have a standard workstation at the museum with a desk, computer, and access to Rijksmuseum working facilities. The Rijksmuseum expects to present the artwork(s) produced in the museum building, collections, gardens, or online environment. Artists will retain ownership of their artwork(s).

Requirements

Applicants must have a proven, high-quality track record as an exhibiting artist with experience in large-scale commissions and public institutions. Candidates should be mid-career Dutch artists or non-Dutch artists who have lived and worked in the Netherlands for at least two years and are well-acquainted with the Dutch art world. Demonstrable experience with a research-based practice is essential. While a formal education is not strictly required, a completed BA and/or MA degree is considered an advantage. Submissions are welcomed from artists working in any discipline.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit: 1) A proposal description (maximum 4 A4 pages) explaining its relevance and relationship to the Rijksmuseum and/or its collections; 2) A portfolio of previous work (maximum 5 images or links); 3) A motivation letter (250-300 words) detailing why a residency would be suitable at this time, its aim, and benefits; 4) A preliminary work schedule for the residency period; 5) A resume detailing education, work experience, honors, awards, and exhibitions; and 6) Ideas on public engagement methods. All six documents must be submitted through the Rijksmuseum website by 24 August 2025. Applications sent by email will not be considered.