Funding & creative support3 open opportunities listed
About the foundation
A4 Residency Art Center, based in Chengdu, China, operates as the residency arm of the A4 Art Museum (formerly known as the Luxelakes·A4 Art Museum). Founded with a commitment to fostering experimental contemporary art practices, the residency supports both Chinese and international artists, curators, and researchers. Its core mission is to provide time, space, and critical context for artists to develop new work, often in dialogue with the museum's broader programming and the local artistic community. The residency emphasizes process over product, encouraging residents to engage with the specific social and cultural fabric of Chengdu and southwestern China. Since its inception, A4 has hosted numerous artists from diverse backgrounds, facilitating cross-cultural exchange and contributing to the region's growing reputation as a hub for contemporary art. The program is known for its flexible structure, allowing residents to pursue individual research while also participating in public programs, open studios, and exhibitions. By embedding residents within the museum's ecosystem, A4 Residency Art Center aims to create a supportive environment where risk-taking and experimentation are valued, and where artists can test ideas without the pressure of immediate outcomes.
Funding opportunities
3 listed
Application guidance
Artists interested in the A4 Residency should first review the specific call for applications on the museum's website, as requirements and themes vary by cycle. The application typically requires a project proposal, portfolio, CV, and sometimes a letter of intent. Given the residency's emphasis on process and experimentation, proposals that demonstrate a clear research interest and a willingness to engage with the local context are favored over fully realized projects. It is advisable to articulate how the residency would benefit your practice and how you might contribute to the community. While Chinese language skills are not mandatory, showing an awareness of the cultural context can strengthen your application. The selection committee looks for artistic merit, feasibility of the proposal, and potential for meaningful exchange. Deadlines are usually announced several months in advance, and applications are accepted through an online system. Due to limited spots, early preparation and a well-crafted, honest proposal are recommended. For further inquiries, contacting the residency coordinator via email is acceptable, but avoid generic requests for information that is already published.
Foundation media
1 images
01Representative overview image of A4 Residency Art Center International Residency 2027 (China)