UNESCO World Heritage Scholarship 2026 | International Residency for Artists and Researchers

The UNESCO World Heritage Scholarship 2026 is an international residency and funding opportunity designed for artists, cultural practitioners, and researchers interested in world heritage, culture, and creative exploration. This initiative is connected to the Decorated Farmhouses of Hälsingland, a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage property in Sweden, known for its rich cultural traditions and artistic heritage.

The scholarship aims to promote global dialogue, cultural exchange, and innovative interpretation of world heritage values.

About the Scholarship

This international scholarship supports creative and research projects that explore the significance of World Heritage Sites and their relevance in today’s world. Participants are encouraged to develop work that connects the Decorated Farmhouses of Hälsingland with other cultural, historical, or heritage contexts.

The decorated farmhouses are celebrated for their hand-painted interiors and reflect the lifestyle, craftsmanship, and cultural expression of rural communities across centuries.

What the Scholarship Offers

Selected candidates will receive:

• A four-week residency in Hälsingland, Sweden
• A financial grant of approximately 50,000 SEK
• Travel support for international participants
• Access to historic sites and cultural environments

The program provides time and space for focused creative or academic work in a heritage-rich setting.

Who Can Apply

This opportunity is open to:

• Professional artists
• Researchers and academics
• Cultural practitioners and heritage professionals

Applicants from all countries are welcome. Candidates should present a clear project proposal demonstrating how their work relates to world heritage themes, cultural preservation, or artistic interpretation.

Residency Experience

During the residency, participants are expected to:

• Conduct research or produce creative work inspired by the heritage site
• Engage with local traditions, architecture, and cultural narratives
• Reflect on the role of World Heritage in contemporary society
• Contribute to knowledge exchange and cultural dialogue

Why This Opportunity Matters

The UNESCO World Heritage Scholarship supports innovative perspectives on cultural heritage while encouraging international collaboration. It allows artists and researchers to immerse themselves in a unique cultural landscape and contribute to the global understanding of heritage conservation and creative expression.