Powerhouse and the Cité internationale des arts have opened applications for the fourth year of the prestigious galang residency.
Supporting First Nations creatives to work in Paris as part of two to three-month residencies between June-August and July-September 2026, the residency is open to Australian-based practitioners from a range of disciplines including architecture, design, music, performance, photography, visual arts, weaving and writing.
The program includes return flights to and from Paris, accommodation at the Cité internationale des arts, and opportunities to meet and collaborate with professionals from the city's cultural milieu.
The 2025 program attracted a high standard of applicants, with Archibald Prize-winning artist Vincent Namatjira OAM and multidisciplinary creative Jarra Karalinar Steel offered residencies to complete projects reflecting on the impacts of First Nations representation in art and history.
Namatjira said the residency was an opportunity for him to push his practice and further connect with the rest of the world.
"Coming all the way from a remote community, the galang residency at the Cité, was an excellent opportunity for me to push my practice and connect with the rest of the world," he said.
"Although I was far from the APY Lands, I felt right at home in my studio at the Cité in Paris among other artists and new friends."
Steel described the residency as "a fantastic opportunity to connect meaningfully with other artists, industry professionals and institutions".
"Having that precious time to ideate and focus on my creative practice without the distractions of everyday life was truly appreciated," she said.
The 2026 galang residency selection panel will consist of Residency Programmes and Partnerships manager Cité internationale des arts Souraya Kessaria, Powerhouse Adjunct Curator Brook Garru Andrew, and Powerhouse Director First Nations Beau James.
"Our work is centred in creating conditions where artistic practices can unfold with the attention and freedom needed to deepen research. Welcoming First Nations artists from Australia as part of the galang residency is always a profoundly meaningful moment for our residents' community," Kessaria said.
"Their presence opens new conversations, expands our shared ways of thinking and making, and strengthens the fabric of dialogue that lies at the heart of the Cité."
Powerhouse chief executive Lisa Havilah said galang is "a cultural bridge that honours the depth, strength and continuity of First Nations creative practice".
"For Powerhouse, supporting this program in partnership with the Cité internationale des arts is part of our commitment to creating spaces where First Nations creatives can lead, influence and shape cultural dialogue globally."
Applications close on Friday the 30th of January 2026. Successful applicants will be announced in March 2026. To apply for the 2026 galang residency program, visit Powerhouse online.
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