The British Council, in partnership with Villa Karo, is inviting applications from design professionals based in the UK, Nigeria, and Ghana for an interdisciplinary residency program in Benin Republic in the spring of 2026.
The target is to address climate challenges through collaborative practice and cross-cultural exchange, develop new design projects inspired by their residency experience, engage with local artists and community members through workshops and discussions, showcase artists’ work through exhibitions or presentations, and document and share their experiences.
Benefits
The benefits range from enjoying dedicated workspaces and facilities to exploring cultural history and contemporary art museums, multipurpose spaces and workshops, and regular cultural events and programming.
Who qualifies to apply?
– You must be based in the UK, Nigeria, or Ghana and have experience in any design discipline (architecture, design, fashion, etc.)
– The ideal candidate is interested in addressing climate change through design, and can commit to an eight-week residency in Benin (in Spring 2026)
– Both early careers and established practitioners are welcome to apply, but all candidates will be evaluated primarily on the viability of the work plan and the alignment with the ‘design for climate’ theme.
Deadline
Apply before june, 2025
Where to apply
The British Council, in collaboration with Villa Karo, is inviting design professionals from the UK, Nigeria, and Ghana to apply for an interdisciplinary residency program in Benin Republic set for spring 2026.
The residency aims to confront climate challenges through collaborative practice and cross-cultural exchange.
Participants will develop design projects inspired by their experiences, engage with local artists and communities through workshops and discussions, and showcase their work via exhibitions or presentations while documenting and sharing their experiences.
Applicants will benefit from dedicated workspaces, cultural history explorations, visits to contemporary art museums, and participation in workshops and cultural events.
To qualify, individuals must be based in the UK, Nigeria, or Ghana and have experience in a design discipline, with a keen interest in addressing climate change through design.
Both emerging and established professionals can apply, though candidates will be assessed based on their work plan's feasibility and alignment with the "design for climate" theme.
Applications are open until June 2025, and interested participants can apply through the provided link.
