About The Program:

The third edition of the “Dar Al Qalam” Arabic Calligraphy Residency Program, by Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy, aims to develop the artistic capacities of calligraphers and contemporary artists by creating an integrated environment for practical experimentation, knowledge exchange, and artistic dialogue. It also seeks to strengthen local and international cultural exchange. Tapping into the intersection of Arab identity within the practice of calligraphy.

The program runs for eight weeks and brings together ten resident artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. Both local and international participants are given access to the program’s spaces and activities within the field of Arabic calligraphy, encouraging exploration and experimentation across multiple disciplines and media.

Artists are invited to develop both individual and collaborative works throughout the residency, which concludes with a five-days public Open Studio event showcasing the outcomes of the program.

The program also includes a structured artistic curriculum featuring workshops, intensive courses, and discussion sessions. These provide participants with space for dialogue and artistic exchange, while promoting Arabic calligraphy as a medium for expressing their artistic practices and creative ideas.

Al Madina Al Munawara, Saudi Arabia.

8 weeks ( 15 September 2026 – 9 November 2026 )

Selection Committee Members:

The selection committee consists of a group of diverse experts in Arabic calligraphy and visual arts, striking a balance of perspectives that bridges authenticity and contemporary practice. The committee includes:

Professional calligraphers

with expertise and knowledge of the visual aesthetic values and authenticity of Arabic calligraphy practice

Type designers

to provide a contemporary design perspective and connect Arabic calligraphy with modern typographic and digital contexts

Contemporary calligraphy artists

to offer experimental and innovative insights reflecting the evolution of artistic practice

Researchers and historians of Arabic calligraphy

to provide a deeper cultural and historical perspective that supports the evaluation process

All applications will be reviewed by a committee of experts in visual arts and Arabic calligraphy, both local and international, based on criteria that ensure the selection of participants most aligned with the program’s objectives.

Application Stages:

Application Period Announcement

14 May – 9 June

Interview Coordination and Communication with Selected Applicants

12 August – 25 August

Program Start

15 September – 9 November (eight weeks)

Open Studio

8 November – 11 November

The Program Includes:

Studio work

Practical workshops

Discussions

Intensive courses

Development sessions with the lead curator

Consultations with field experts

Tours and visits

Individual outputs

Group outputs

Open studio

APPLY NOW

Additional Information:

The Program

The Program
The artistic residency program in its second edition aims to encourage learning and exchange ideas around Arabic calligraphy, both locally and globally, to foster discovery.
It focuses on 4 main themes: discovering traditional roots, related art forms, contemporary practices, and the future of creativity in calligraphy.
The program helps artists develop both individual and group projects, ending with a public Open Studio event.
The program offers a full schedule that includes advanced workshops, critical discussions, one-on-one mentorship, cultural tours in and out of Jeddah, and visits to local artists’ studios and specialized workspaces.
It wraps up with a public Open Studio event, giving visitors a chance to engage directly with the artists’ creative journeys.
The residency supports the development of both research and art projects that contribute to a broader conversation about the future of Arabic calligraphy.
The residency hosts ten artists over an eight-week period, facilitated by the program team in collaboration with local and international experts.
The Open Studio runs for three days and is open to the public.
What does the program offer?

The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy’s artist residency program in its second edition provides a unique and impactful experience for selected residents, offering them the following:
Dedicated Studio & Living Space: A fully equipped location in Jeddah offering a shared studio, private workspaces, and comfortable private accommodation.
Travel: Round-trip airfare from each participant’s location to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and visa issuance for selected international participants.
Expert Mentorship: Guidance, feedback, and creative advice from professional calligraphers and experienced practitioners.
Engagement Activities: Participate in workshops, lectures, and interactive sessions with local, regional, and international experts.
Cultural Immersion: Activities designed to explore local culture and engage with the creative community, including visits to exhibitions and museums, and networking with key figures in the local art scene.
Monthly Pocket Money: A financial allowance covering personal expenses, transportation, and commuting throughout the program.
Production Grant: Each resident receives a dedicated production grant, with its amount determined based on the needs and specific requirements of each individual project.
Showcase Opportunities: Completed works and projects will be showcased at the Open Studio at the end of the residency.
Multilingual Environment: The program is offered in both Arabic and English to ensure clear and accessible communication.

Application Requirements

All applications will be carefully reviewed by a selection committee of experts in Arabic calligraphy and visual arts, both local and international. A successful application must include details about:

1. The applicant’s field of expertise and artistic interests

2. The importance of local context, and themes of innovation, transformation, and sustainability within their practice

3. Their motivation for applying to the residency program and how it will support the development of their professional career

4. The project they intend to develop during the residency period

As outlined in the following sections, each of these points can be addressed in concise statements.

1. A clear statement must be submitted, including details of the applicant’s professional background, previous experience, interests, creative practice, and areas of specialization.

2. Motivation Statement: A brief statement explaining the reason for applying to the residency and how the program will contribute to the development of the applicant’s practice.

3. Project Proposal: A description of the proposed project, including a brief overview of the work the applicant intends to develop or continue during the residency. It should specify whether the project is production-based or research-based and clarify whether it is a new work or an ongoing project.

4. Participants continuing an existing project are responsible for transporting any related components to the workspace in Madinah. Necessary support will be provided by the program, including recommendations for shipping companies for residents (subject to the curator’s evaluation of the work).

5. A portfolio showcasing previous work that best represents the applicant’s practice, including but not limited to artworks, past projects, exhibitions, texts, and/or publications.

6. An updated CV.

Application Conditions

Age: All applicants must be at least 21 years old
Language: Proficiency in Arabic and English.
Nationality: Applications are open to Saudi citizens, residents, and international participants of various nationalities.
Artistic Practice: The program is open to mid-career practitioners in Arabic calligraphy (including, but not limited to, experience in Arabic calligraphy, visual arts, fine arts, and calligraphy-related crafts). Applicants must demonstrate prior experience in producing visual artworks, whether academically or professionally, as part of the evaluation criteria.
Commitment: Applicants must be fully available to stay on-site for the entire residency duration (8 weeks) and be willing to develop an artistic or research-based project focusing on themes of innovation, transformation, and sustainability in relation to the integration of Arabic calligraphy and visual arts.
Complete Applications: Only applications submitted through the official website and online application form will be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Communication Ability: Openness to knowledge exchange, idea sharing, exploration, and the ability to engage in artistic communication and creative collaboration with residents, curators, and experts.
Intellectual Property: The center shall retain the right to use the works produced during the program for a period of two years commencing from the end date of the residency.

FAQs

What is the residency program?

Artist residency programs typically provide support and resources for artists who wish to explore new practices and develop their creative experiences. The Arabic Calligraphy Residency Program offers calligraphers and artists a temporary creative space that allows them to work away from daily distractions and focus on research, experimentation, and artistic production. Resident artists are given the opportunity to meet other practitioners and creatives, in addition to working full-time in dedicated studio spaces during the residency period. The program also aims to empower participants to work in an inspiring environment that supports experimentation, encourages cultural exchange locally and internationally, and enhances the development of contemporary artistic practices in Arabic calligraphy.

Who manages the program?

The program was developed by the Ministry of Culture (under the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy initiative) to provide opportunities for innovation and collaboration between Arabic calligraphy and related visual arts. This edition of the multidisciplinary residency program is managed and supervised by a team of experienced local and international experts.

What are the application requirements?

All applicants must be at least 21 years old at the start of residency.
Proficiency in Arabic and/or English.
Applications are open to Saudi citizens, residents, and international participants of various nationalities.
The program is open to mid-career practitioners in Arabic calligraphy (including, but not limited to, experience in Arabic calligraphy, visual arts, fine arts, and calligraphy-related crafts). Applicants must demonstrate prior experience in producing visual artworks, whether academically or professionally.
Commitment to stay on-site in Madinah for the full residency period (8 weeks) and willingness to develop an artistic or research-based project focused on innovation, transformation, and sustainability in relation to Arabic calligraphy and visual arts.
Applications are reviewed only through the official website and application form. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

How many residents are selected?

Ten resident artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.

When does the application period close?

The open call starts on 9-2-2024 and ends on 22-2-2024.

What is the duration of the residency and its details?

The program lasts for eight weeks.
It includes a structured artistic program featuring workshops and intensive courses that provide space for dialogue and artistic exchange, enhancing Arabic calligraphy as a medium for expressing artistic practices and creative ideas.

What are the selection criteria?

Completion of the application form
Artistic experience in Arabic calligraphy or related visual arts
Relevance of the application context
Themes of transformation and innovation
Artistic motivation
Quality and relevance of the proposed project

Will I have the opportunity to exhibit my work during the residency?

Yes. All selected residents will have the opportunity to present their work produced and reviewed during the residency as part of the Open Studio event lasting one week.

Is it mandatory to produce artwork during the residency?

Yes. Artists are expected to produce either an artwork or research project during the residency, which will be presented during the Open Studio.

Does the residency cover local transportation costs?

The organizers cover local transportation for group visits and program-related activities inside and outside Madinah. However, participants are responsible for their own personal transportation costs.

Is there any participation fee?

No, the residency is fully funded and covers the following:
Private accommodation (private room with ensuite bathroom)
Individual studio space within the residency site (with shared spaces)
Round-trip economy airfare to and from Madinah
Three daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Visa facilitation for selected international participants
Transportation for organized group trips within and outside Madinah
A stipend every four weeks for personal living expenses (e.g., transportation, laundry)
Production grant determined based on the specific needs of each project as evaluated by the residency team

Are there activities outside the studio?

Yes. The program includes a schedule of activities such as visits, meetings with experts and guests, and training programs.

Is insurance included?

No. Residents are responsible for arranging their own health insurance.

Can I extend my stay after the residency ends?

No. The residency is not responsible for extended stays or any related requirements, including visa, accommodation, living expenses, or other costs.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Yes. Applicants must be at least 21 years old by the start date of the residency.

Can all nationalities apply?

Yes. The program is open to Saudi nationals, residents, and international applicants with a demonstrable active artistic practice.

Must the application be in English or Arabic?

Applications are accepted in either Arabic or English.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

Only applications submitted before the deadline will be considered. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Can groups apply together?

Will I receive feedback if I am not selected?

Due to the large number of applications, organizers are unable to provide individual feedback to unsuccessful applicants.

Do I need to be physically present for the entire program?

Yes.

Support & Contact

For inquiries:
daralqalamresidency@moc.gov.sa