S+T+ARTS Afropean Intelligence invites applications for its 2025 artist residency programme, supporting African artists working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, culture, and community. Ten selected artists will take part in an 8-month hybrid residency.
By Creatives Unite CommunityDeadline for applications: 27 June 2025, 10:00 UTC
Organisers: S+T+ARTS initiative of the European Commission
Who It’s For: Artists who are nationals or permanent residents of any African country
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About the Programme
Afropean Intelligence fosters new spaces of collaboration between artists, technologists, and communities. It encourages artistic innovation that challenges dominant narratives and addresses pressing societal issues through a critical lens on AI technologies. Residencies are hosted in Africa, with support from European partners providing expertise, guidance, and international exposure.
Residencies run from September 2025 to April 2026, culminating in public presentations and events until June 2026. Artists will engage in reflection, experimentation, and development phases, supported by mentors and technical experts throughout.
What to Expect
Each selected artist will receive a grant of up to €20,000 to cover artist fees, production, travel, and accommodation, including travel to the AI Boot Camp in Johannesburg in November 2025.
Residencies are hybrid, combining on-site presence at an African host institution and online collaboration with European partners. Artists will also access a pool of AI and technology experts and be connected to the S+T+ARTS network, comprising over 10,000 members worldwide.
The programme includes:
- An online kick-off in September 2025
- A 5-day AI Boot Camp in South Africa (November 2025)
- Project development with mentoring and technical guidance
- A final showcase in June 2026 at a local event in Africa
Why Apply
This is a unique opportunity to:
- Develop innovative work with expert support
- Critically engage with AI in an African context
- Present your work to new audiences
- Collaborate across disciplines and continents
- Join an international network advancing digital innovation with social impact
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be nationals or permanent residents of an African country
- Have at least 5 years of documented artistic practice
- Be able to travel to the host country and to South Africa
- Submit an original project proposal responding to one of ten AI-themed challenges
- Not be currently receiving another S+T+ARTS grant in 2025/2026
Artists may apply as individuals or collectives (with at least one eligible member). Projects must be new, rooted in the artist’s practice, and include a digital component. All submissions must be made in English (French is also accepted for some challenges).
To apply, please read the full guide for applicants and visit the S+T+ARTS official website for more information.
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Image: Eva Blue on Unsplash
