The dream of dedicating uninterrupted time to your craft or research, surrounded by inspiring beauty, is a powerful one. For artists, scholars, and thinkers across the globe, the Camargo Fellowship Residencies 2026 in Cassis, France, offers just that opportunity. This prestigious program, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mediterranean, provides a haven for deep inquiry, creative experimentation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Imagine waking up each day with the sole purpose of advancing your project, free from the distractions of daily life. That’s the essence of the Camargo experience. Having seen countless individuals benefit from such focused residencies, I can attest to the profound impact dedicated time and an inspiring environment can have on one’s work. The Camargo Foundation stands as a beacon for those seeking to push the boundaries of their fields, offering not just a space, but a vibrant community where ideas flourish.
A Glimpse into the Camargo Fellowship
The Camargo Foundation, established by American artist and philanthropist Jerome Hill, has been a cornerstone for artists, scholars, and thinkers since 1971. Its core mission is to foster creativity, research, and experimentation through its international residency programs. Located in the charming coastal town of Cassis, France, the Foundation provides a unique blend of tranquility and intellectual stimulation.
Camargo Fellowship Residencies 2026
| Key Fact | Detail/Statistic |
| Program Type | Research-based residencies for artists, scholars, and thinkers. Camargo Foundation Official Website |
| Duration | 10 weeks per fellowship. |
| Stipend | EUR 350 per week (total EUR 3500 for the residency), plus basic transportation funding to and from Cassis. |
| Residency Periods | Fall 2026 (typically September to November) and Spring 2027 (typically February to May). Specific dates for 2026-2027 will be confirmed by the Foundation. |
| Number of Fellows | 14 fellowships per year, typically split between 7 artists and 7 scholars/thinkers. |
| Application Deadline | October 1, 2025, for the 2026-2027 Camargo Fellowship. |
The Camargo Fellowship Residencies 2026 offer a truly unparalleled opportunity for artists, scholars, and thinkers to immerse themselves in their work within an inspiring and supportive international community. From the tranquil beauty of Cassis to the intellectual vibrancy of fellow residents, every aspect of the program is designed to foster profound creative and scholarly advancement. Don’t let this chance pass you by. Start refining your project proposal, gathering your best work, and prepare to embark on a transformative journey. The Mediterranean awaits your brilliance.
Who is the Camargo Fellowship For?
The Camargo Fellowship welcomes a diverse array of talent, categorized into three main groups: Scholars, Thinkers, and Artists. Understanding which category best suits your profile is the first step towards a successful application.
Scholars
If you’re a scholar in the Arts and Humanities, particularly with a focus on French and Francophone cultures, or cross-cultural studies engaging the Mediterranean region, this category is for you. To be eligible, applicants should either hold a PhD with a record of post-doctoral scholarship or be PhD candidates nearing the completion of their dissertation research or writing. Academic translators who meet these requirements are also encouraged to apply under this category.
Thinkers
This category is designed for accomplished professionals and practitioners in cultural and creative fields who are deeply engaged in critical thought. This can include curators, journalists, critics, urban planners, independent scholars, and more. Camargo seeks work that is attuned to theoretical discussions, the arts, and society, particularly those contributing to equitable transitions and producing plural subjectivities. Literary translators with a theoretical or research-oriented project may also find their place here.
Artists
The Camargo Fellowship is a research-based residency for artists, meaning your proposal should reflect a strong research component rather than just production. Applicants must have maintained a professional practice for at least five years and should be the primary creators of new work or a new project. A strong track record of publications, public performances, exhibitions, credits, awards, or grants is essential. Camargo is interested in artists with a fully developed, mature artistic voice who are engaged in critical thought and research-oriented projects.
Artists can apply within several subcategories:
- Visual Artists
- Choreographers, Theater Directors, and Performance Artists
- Writers and Playwrights
- Film, Video, and Digital Artists
- Composers and Sound Artists
- Multidisciplinary Artists
Crafting a Winning Application for Camargo Fellowship Residencies 2026
Securing a Camargo Fellowship is competitive, but with a strategic approach, your chances increase significantly. Here’s how to navigate the application process effectively.
Understand the Research-Based Nature
A common mistake I’ve observed in applications is a lack of emphasis on the “research-based” aspect of the residency, especially for artists. Your proposal should clearly articulate the research questions you intend to explore, the methodologies you’ll employ, and how the Camargo environment will facilitate this inquiry. It’s not just about producing a work; it’s about the intellectual journey behind it.
Your Project Proposal: The Heart of Your Application
Your project proposal is your opportunity to shine. It should be concise, compelling, and demonstrate a clear vision for your 10 weeks in Cassis. The Camargo Foundation explicitly asks for a proposal summary (around 100 words) followed by a more detailed plan.
- Clarity and Specificity: Clearly outline what you aim to achieve during your residency. Whether it’s a book, a film, a composition, or an artwork, define your specific goals.
- Relevance: For scholars, ensure your research aligns with French and Francophone cultures or Mediterranean cross-cultural studies. For all categories, demonstrate how your project contributes to your field and potentially to broader societal discussions.
- Feasibility: While ambitious, your project should be realistically achievable within a 10-week timeframe, considering the resources available at the Foundation.
- Originality: Showcase what makes your project unique and why Camargo is the ideal place for its development.
Demonstrating Your Track Record
Your CV and work samples are crucial for establishing your expertise and authority.
- CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and highlights relevant achievements, publications, exhibitions, and awards. For artists, demonstrate a consistent professional practice for at least the past five years.
- Work Samples: Follow the specific guidelines for your discipline. For writers, this might be up to 20 pages of writing. For filmmakers, up to 20 minutes of film links. Composers might submit sound samples. Always provide the best examples of your work that align with your proposed project.
The Camargo Experience: More Than Just a Residency
Being a Camargo Fellow is about more than just personal work; it’s about joining a vibrant, interdisciplinary community. The Foundation actively encourages exchanges among fellows, fostering a collective spirit and sparking new perspectives. This collaborative environment can be incredibly enriching, providing opportunities for unexpected insights and connections.
“The interactions developed among the program’s fellows are a vital element of this program,” states the Camargo Foundation, underscoring their commitment to fostering a supportive and stimulating environment. My experience advising students and professionals on various residencies has shown me that the networking and peer feedback gained in such settings can be as valuable as the dedicated work time.
Applying for the Camargo Fellowship Residencies 2026: Key Dates and Tips
The application deadline for the Camargo Fellowship (2026-2027) is October 1, 2025. It’s crucial to submit your application well in advance of this date to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
Application Procedure:
- Applications are accepted exclusively via the Camargo Foundation’s online platform, Submittable.
- You can only submit one application per cycle.
- Ensure all supporting materials (CV, work samples, references) are complete and adhere to the specified formats and lengths.
Upcoming Webinar:
The Camargo Foundation typically organizes a webinar to present the upcoming edition of the Fellowship. For the 2026-2027 edition, a webinar is planned for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 4 PM CET. This is an invaluable opportunity to gain direct insights into the program and ask any questions you may have. Keep an eye on the Camargo Foundation website for the webinar link.
The Camargo Foundation’s social media channels often share updates, insights from past fellows, and announcements. Following them can provide a deeper sense of the community and program.
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FAQ
Q1: What is the primary focus of the Camargo Fellowship?
A: The Camargo Fellowship is a research-based residency program that fosters creativity, research, and experimentation in the arts and humanities, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches and critical thought.
Q2: Are collaborative projects eligible for the Camargo Fellowship?
A: Yes, the Camargo Foundation welcomes applications from collaborative teams of up to three individuals, including interdisciplinary projects. Each team member receives a stipend and travel grant, and the team is assigned a multi-bedroom apartment.
Q3: Can non-EU citizens apply for the Camargo Fellowship?
A: Yes, the Camargo Foundation is open to applicants from around the globe. Non-EU citizens will need to secure a visa for France, and the Foundation will provide an invitation letter if required. It’s advisable to contact your local French Embassy or Consulate early to understand visa requirements.
Q4: What kind of support does the Camargo Foundation provide besides the stipend and accommodation?
A: Beyond the weekly stipend and furnished accommodation, the Foundation offers access to a reference library, communal working spaces, and a vibrant community designed to foster intellectual exchange and collaboration. While studios are provided for artists, it’s important to remember the residency is research-based, and art supplies or technical equipment are generally not provided.
Q5: Is it possible to bring family members during the residency?
A: Spouses/adult partners and dependent minor children are welcome to accompany Fellows for short stays or for the duration of the residency. Accompanying children must be at least six years old upon arrival and enrolled in and attending school or organized activities outside the Camargo Foundation campus during the week.
