In 2026, Istituto Svizzero, the Wyss Academy for Nature, and Swissnex in Brazil come together to launch an ambitious Art & Science Residency dedicated to one of the most vital ecosystems on the planet: Amazonia.

This three-month international residency invites three artists, from Brazil, Peru, and Switzerland, to engage deeply with Amazonian socio-ecological realities and to translate scientific, cultural, and ancestral knowledge into artistic research and creation.

The selected artists will spend six weeks in Tambopata, Madre de Dios, Peru, followed by six weeks at Istituto Svizzero’s Villa Maraini in Rome, Italy, to explore how artistic practices can contribute to ongoing environmental and social transformations.

Artistic Focus

Projects developed during the residency are expected to engage meaningfully with the Amazon Forests, exploring the interdependence between nature and society, the connections between forested and urban spaces, and forest values shaped by ancestral knowledge. Artists are also encouraged to address nature-based solutions, as well as social or technical innovations, and to reflect on the role of art in environmental and social transformation. Collaboration among the three resident artists is strongly encouraged, including the development of a joint final artistic project.

What the Residency Offers

The residency consists of a six-week field-based stay in Madre de Dios, Peru, followed by a six-week residency at Istituto Svizzero in Rome. Residents will be provided with a monthly grant of CHF 1,500 for the full residency period (total CHF 4,500), shared accommodation in Madre de Dios, Peru, and all meals will be fully covered. At Villa Maraini, in the center of Rome, Italy, residents will be provided with a private room or a shared apartment, including breakfast and a shared communal lunch from Monday to Friday.

The programme includes participation in public events in Tambopata and Rome, support for small artistic initiatives in Peru, Rome, and Switzerland, and access to Istituto Svizzero’s library, digital resources, and international networks. Resulting artworks will be promoted by Istituto Svizzero, Swissnex in Brazil, and the Wyss Academy for Nature. Artists will also present their research outcomes during a public event at Istituto Svizzero.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must:

• Proven artistic activity in Brazil in one or more artistic disciplines, including but not limited to visual arts, design, architecture, cinema, literature, dance, theatre, performing arts, music, and other artistic fields
•  The candidate has completed a post-bachelor’s study (Master’s or other) or has proven experience in the artistic field
•  Brazilian citizens or residents in Brazil with a sufficient knowledge of English and Spanish to facilitate communication, local exchanges, and documentation during the residency
• There is no age limit

Applications for shorter or longer stays will not be considered, and applicants may not apply simultaneously to other Istituto Svizzero residency programmes in the same academic year.

Residency Dates

• Madre de Dios, Peru: 14 September–25 October

• Rome, Italy: 26 October–6 December

• Switzerland–Possibility of a public presentation in December 2026 (venue and date to be confirmed)

For general inquiries about the residency in Madre de Dios, please contact: Cynthia Gómez at [email protected]

For general inquiries about the residency in Rome, please contact: Elena Catuogno at [email protected]