Une Vallée vivante – Art Residency in France

Montpellier 2028 – Terres de culture and the Communauté de communes Vallée de l’Hérault are inviting artists to apply for the “Une Vallée vivante” research and creation residency at the former Aniane Abbey in southern France.

The residency focuses on artistic exploration of the Vallée de l’Hérault through its landscapes, memories, sounds, local communities and ongoing transformations.

Who can apply

• The residency is open to artists working in visual arts, music and sound creation.

• Artists may apply individually or as an already established duo. Two selected individual artists may also be paired by the organisers after the selection process.

• There are no age or geographical restrictions, so artists from any country can apply.

Program

• Selected artists will spend eight weeks developing a research and creative project connected to the Vallée de l’Hérault.

• The residency may include meetings with local residents, collecting stories and sounds, workshops, artistic research and experimentation.

• Artists will have access to several workspaces at the former Aniane Abbey, including a 350 m² chapel suitable for rehearsals, recording, workshops and other creative activities.

• The residency will take place between January and April 2027. The eight weeks do not necessarily have to be consecutive.

Funding and conditions

• Each selected artist will receive €6,000.

• This amount covers the artist’s remuneration, daily expenses and round-trip travel to Aniane.

• Accommodation will be provided when necessary.

• The organisers will also support artists with local transportation during the residency.

Application requirements

Applicants must submit:

• an up-to-date biography;

• a portfolio of no more than 15 pages;

• a maximum two-page statement explaining the proposed research and creative approach.

The application must be submitted in PDF format by email.

Deadline

16 November 2026.