The Rele Young Contemporaries project 2026

Opportunity type:  Residency

For: Visual artists

Deadline: 02/05/2025

Rewards: Residency + exhibition

Location Eligibility: Worldwide

About this opportunity 

The Rele Arts Foundation has opened applications for the 2026 edition of its Young Contemporaries program, running from April 4 to May 2, 2025. Now in its ninth year, this program helps early-career African artists grow through mentorship, virtual bootcamps, residencies, and curated exhibitions.

Rele launched Young Contemporaries in 2016 to discover and develop emerging talent across Africa. The program offers hands-on training, professional development, and global exposure to help artists build lasting careers in contemporary art.

Participants join a two-week virtual bootcamp focused on critical thinking, international art practices, digital visibility, and proper handling of artwork. They also take part in a residency that encourages deep studio practice and sharpens their creative direction. The program ends with a major group exhibition that introduces their work to collectors, curators, and the public. This showcase acts as a launchpad, connecting artists to key networks in and beyond Africa’s art scene.

Rewards

Residency + exhibition

Eligibility

Open to artists from Africa.

Entry Fee

No entry fee.

How to Apply 

Apply using the link: Young Contemporaries Residency 2026

All questions regarding this award should be sent to info@releartsfoundation.org