LEVELD KUNSTNARTUN AiR
Leveld Kunstnartun tilbyr gratis arbeidsplass til biletkunstnarar, forfattarar, kuratorar, filmskaparar, danserar, scenekunstnarar, musikarar, komponistar, kunstnarar innafor nye mediar og arkitektar.
Dei besøkande kunstnarane kjem frå Noreg og heile verda for å arbeide i våre atelierer og verkstader i 1-3 månader.
LKT får støtte frå Kulturdepartementet, Norsk Kulturråd, Viken fylkeskommune og Ål kommune.
Leveld Kunstnartun ligg i Leveld i Ål kommune, midt mellom Oslo og Bergen.
Bygda ligg 700 moh, ved foten av Skarvheimen og er ei levande bygd med rundt 300 innbyggjarar.
Leveld Kunstnartun byggjer på Leveld si kulturhistorie. Mange kunstnarar reiste til denne bygda for å hente inspirasjon og arbeide. Dei budde på gardane og vart ein del av bygdemiljøet.
Gerhard Munthe kom fyrst på 1880-talet. Seinare, frå 1930 og utover, kom fleire. Mange vart fascinert av lyset i Leveld, og mange av dei var knytt til det antroposofiske miljøet, inspirert av Göthes fargelære. Nils Ellingsgard, som har skrive om biletkunsten i Hallingdal, meiner desse kunstnarane skaffa Leveld ein plass i norsk kunsthistorie.
Fleire kunstnarar følgde etter Munthe: Thor Bøhn, Gøsta Munsterhjelm, Karl Høgberg, Kaare Wildhagen, Fridtjof Smith-Hald d.y., Alvhild Bratt, Hetty Gleditsch, Pelle Roll Thommesen og Alf Jørgen Aas var biletkunstnarar.
Jens Bjørneboe og Agnar Mykle var blant forfattarane. Begge bygde seg feriestad i bygda. Stabburet som Jens Bjørneboe budde fleire somrar i, står i dag i kunstnartunet. Gulle Brun og Signe Seim har begge funne del av si diktarstemme i Leveld.
eveld Kunstnartun er ferdig utbygd og oppussa, men utviklar seg stadig for å imøtekomme kunstnaranes behov. I 2021 blei LKT AiR utvida med eit komplett grafisk verkstad som står til gjestekunstnaranes disposisjon. Verkstaden kan idag tilby utstyr til litografi, dyptrykk og snart silketrykk.
Tunet består av to bustadhus: Lærarbustaden og Astridtugu, loftet (stabburet) til Jens Bjørneboe, ein skåle som fungerer som arbeidsrom og to store atelier/arbeidsrom og forsamlingslokale. Det sosiale bufellesskapet er ein del av tanken med Leveld Kunstnartun. Det same er jobbing på tvers av sjangrar og kunstfelt, Kunstnartunet vil vere ein møtestad for tverrfagleg samarbeid og nye uttrykksformer.
I dag kjem det kunstnarar frå heile verda på arbeidsopphald til Leveld. Kunstnarar leverer noko tilbake til bygda og regionen gjennom formidling i form av konsert, foredrag, diktlesing, open verkstad eller til dømes eit samarbeid med skulen. Samspelet mellom kunstnarar utanfrå og det lokale kunst- og kulturlivet er utviklande for begge partar, og eit mål i seg sjølv. Kunstnartunet arrangerer sommarutstilling kvart år, og annankvart år er det "Stabbursfrieri - grenselaus kulturfestival" i tunet. Neste festival blir arrangert sommaren 2023.
Lærarbustaden er eit 50-tals hus med plass til 2-4 personar. Her er det nytt bad, nyoppussa kjøkken, to store soverom og to stover.
Astristugu er det vesle raude huset ved sida av. Her budde Astrid Haugen, heimehjelp og omsorgsperson i bygda. Ho levde eit nøysomt liv i den vesle stova, og tanken er å ta vare på hennar historie. Huset stod ferdig oppussa hausten 2014. Huset inneheld stove med kjøkkenkrok, bad og eitt soverom. Eignar seg for 1-2 personar.
Skålen er eit gamalt uthus som er bygd om til atelier. I den øvre etasjen er det eit 20 km2 stort isolert arbeidsrom, eigna til ulike type skapande aktivitetar.
Bjørneboe-loftet er eit viktig kulturminne. Dette loftet kjøpte Jens Bjørneboe og kona Lisel på 50-talet og brukte det som hytte. I dag fungerer det som eit kultursmykke, ein skrivestad og eit tankeloft.
Låven har to gode og store studio/atelier i øvre etasje og forsamlingslokale/fleirbruksrom med kjøkken i 1.etasje. Inngangspartiet mot tunet fungerer også som scene sommarstid. Bygget er teikna av arkitekt Ola Haug Hagen i arkitektfirmaet Arkitekthagen.
Artudio International Artists Residency in Nepal
We are excited to introduce Artudio International Artists Residency Program, designed as a creative sanctuary where artists can freely experiment, explore, and refine their work in an inspiring artistic environment.
Our residency:
- Accommodates two international artists at a time throughout the year.
- Offers customized residencies from 1 to 6 months, tailored to each artist’s unique needs.
- Provides a space for self-discovery, critical thinking, and artistic growth in a vibrant setting.
At Artudio International Artists Residency, we are committed to building a sustainable global art ecosystem that connects artists to Nepal’s rich cultural, natural, spiritual and artistic landscapes. Through this immersive experience, we empower artists to unlock their full potential and forge meaningful creative journeys.
As an Artist-in-Residence, you will become part of a dynamic and supportive art community, gaining access to valuable resources to enhance your creative practice. Our residency is designed to inspire and empower artists by fostering an environment that encourages exploration, dialogue, and collaboration.
Here, you will have the opportunity to:
- Connect with fellow artists, curators, and cultural practitioners—building lifelong friendships and professional relationships.
- Engage with Nepal’s contemporary art scene, exploring its evolving narratives and creative expressions.
- Immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural and geographical diversity, drawing inspiration from its traditions, landscapes, and people.
- Showcase your work through exhibitions, presentations, and networking events, opening doors for future collaborations.
We strive to maintain a stimulating, open, and accessible environment, offering affordable residency fees while ensuring a fulfilling and immersive experience. We are confident that your time with us will be transformative and unforgettable, propelling your artistic journey forward.
We are situated in Swoyambhu-15, Kathmandu, Nepal, where the harmonious blend of nature and urban life fosters an inspiring environment for creativity and reflection. Just a short distance away is the Swayambhunath Mahachaitya, a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site with deep historical and cultural significance. Known for its profound spiritual importance, this sacred site offers breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and serves as a symbolic gateway to the valley’s cultural heart.
The stupa, believed to be over 2,000 years old, stands as a living testament to Nepal’s ancient Buddhist heritage, drawing pilgrims from around the world. Swayambhunath is not only a major center for Buddhist worship but also a place where interfaith dialogue thrives, as both Buddhists and Hindus coexist in harmony. While commonly referred to by tourists as the “Monkey Temple,” this nickname overlooks the stupa’s true essence—a sacred site rich in mythological, historical, and religious significance. According to legend, the Bodhisattva Manjushri drained the ancient lake that once covered the Kathmandu Valley, and the stupa is believed to have been self-created. Today, it stands as a monument to Nepal’s spiritual, cultural, and artistic heritage, adorned with countless shrines, sculptures, and intricate carvings that reflect the country’s deep connection to the divine.
Convenient Location with Easy Accessibility
Our location offers easy access to the Kathmandu ring road, just a 7-minute walk away, ensuring smooth connectivity to the rest of the city. Artudio is also a mere 5-minute walk from the ring road, offering easy access to Kathmandu’s major attractions and amenities. Tribhuvan International Airport is just 8.5 km away, simplifying international travel for visiting artists.
Explore Cultural & Historical Landmarks Nearby
For those eager to explore Kathmandu’s rich cultural heritage, our vicinity is home to three remarkable museums:
- National Museum of Nepal – Showcasing Nepal’s diverse history and artifacts (4-minute walk).
- Military Museum – Offering insights into Nepal’s military history (3-minute walk).
- Natural History Museum of Nepal – Featuring an extensive collection of Nepal’s flora and fauna (3-minute walk).
Serenity in Nature
Nearby hiking spots, such as Ichangu Narayan, Nagarjuna Hills, and Jamacho Hills, offer panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, providing an ideal retreat for creative reflection and inspiration amidst nature’s tranquility.
Proximity to Historic & Cultural Landmarks
Artudio is located just 2.3 km from the Kathmandu Durbar Square and 7 km from Patan Durbar Square, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are steeped in history, architectural brilliance, and cultural significance.
Spiritual Enrichment
The area is home to renowned Buddhist monasteries, including:
- Benchen Monastery
- Seto Gumba (Druk Amitabh Mountain)
- Tergar Osel Ling Monastery
- Maitreya Gumba
- Manang Gumba
These monasteries contribute to the serene, spiritual ambiance of the residency, offering an enriching experience for the soul.
Dynamic Neighborhood
Artudio is close to vibrant areas like:
- Narayanhity King’s Palace Museum (3.5 km)
- Dharahara (3.5 km)
- Thamel (1.6 km)
- Asan (2.5 km)
These locations allow artists to explore diverse facets of Kathmandu’s culture and history, adding a dynamic layer to their residency experience.
Staying at Artudio allows you to embrace both the tranquility of nature and the richness of Kathmandu’s cultural landscape, making it the ideal place for artists, researchers, and explorers. Immerse yourself in Nepal’s timeless charm and begin your creative journey here!
Residency Fees:
- 1 month – $750
- 2 months – $1,400
- 3 months – $2,200
- 4 months – $2,900
- 5 months – $3,600
- 6 months – $4,000
Artists can bring one companion (a family member or partner) with an additional contribution of $5 per day.
All fees must be paid upon arrival at the start of the residency.
Included in the Fees:
- A spacious bedroom with a balcony overlooking Swayambhunath Mahachaitya.
- A shared kitchen with an induction stove, refrigerator, microwave, and basic utensils.
- A shared bathroom with a hot water shower.
- A workspace with your own desk for projects.
- Wireless internet access (bring your own laptop).
- Electricity and water included.
- A common washing machine for laundry.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off service.
- Weekly housekeeping (dusting, sheet changing, and restroom cleaning).
- Black-and-white printing (A4 size) and photocopying.
- Networking opportunities within Nepal’s art and cultural scene.
- Exhibitions and presentations at Artudio or Artudio’s partner institutions, with event invitations.
- Frequent visits to galleries, studios, museums, and libraries based on artists’ needs.
If you need extra space for your project, shared studio access is also available.
Here’s a simpler and clearer version:
- Flight Costs – Money spent on airfare for the artist’s travel.
- Meals – The cost of food and dining during the trip or stay.
- Exhibition Setup – Expenses for planning and organizing an art exhibition.
- Promotional Materials – Costs for printing brochures, catalogs, or other materials to promote the artist’s work.
- Personal Travel – Any travel expenses not directly related to the art project.
- Art Supplies – Money spent on materials needed to create artworks.
- Daily Expenses – Costs for everyday needs like local transport and phone use.
- Health Insurance – Payment for insurance to cover medical needs during travel.
- Trekking Costs (if interested) – Expenses for trekking or outdoor activities.
- Travel Outside the Main Location – Costs for trips beyond the exhibition or residency site.
We welcome visionary thinkers and contemporary artists from around the globe, spanning diverse disciplines including:
- Visual Arts (painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking)
- New Media Art (video art, sound art, digital installations)
- Design (graphic, industrial, fashion, illustration)
- Writing (literature, poetry, art criticism)
- Curatorial Practices and Research
- Performance Arts (theater, dance, interdisciplinary)
- Creative Media (photography, vlogging, creative influencing)
You can mail your application to: artudiofoundation@gmail.com
Your application must contain the following:
Artist statement,
Recent works (maximum 15 in PDF format),
CV/Bio,
Portfolio,
Project Plan,
Copy of valid Passport,
Application form &
Your profile photograph
Open year-round (rolling admissions). Apply now to secure your spot for 2025/26.
Summer Residency for Artists
Winner announcement - MAY 20, 2025
A post-residency exhibition will be hosted at one of our partner galleries, with a printed publication produced to feature all the work created during the residency.
The residents will be considered for collaboration by 50 of our partner galleries.
Schöhsee Artist Residency
The privately funded initiative Schöhsee Artist Residency offers an annual scholarship for a one-month stay during the summer, designed for artists interested in exploring the interaction between humans and nature, as well as the contrasts between rural and urban spaces. Located in Plön, a charming town in Northern Germany, the residency is open to professional artists of all ages and career stages.
+ Summer Residency
+ €800 Stipend
+ €200 Travel Allowance
Artists will be provided with rent-free accommodation in an eco-tiny house set within a larger garden, along with a dedicated studio space. The scholarship also includes financial support of €800 for the month and a travel allowance of €200. Communal meals can be arranged based on your preferences.
The residency invites participants to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region and engage with its creative community. Meetings with locals from diverse fields and a visit to NordArt, a prominent international art exhibition in Schleswig-Holstein, are part of the program.
In return, artists are encouraged to leave behind a creative contribution—either a work of art or a theoretical reflection—capturing their experiences in Plön and the influence of the region on their artistic practice.
Possible periods of stay:
June 1, 2025 - June 30, 2025
July 1, 2025 - July 31, 2025
Residency Requirements
+ Eligibility:
Artists of all ages and career stages are welcome to apply.
+Stipend & Travel Costs:
The residency offers a stipend of €800, divided over the month and paid on a weekly basis. Additionally, up to €200 is provided to cover travel expenses.
+ Residency Period:
Choose between two possible stays:
June 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025
or July 1, 2025 – July 31, 2025
+ Focus:
The residency encourages artistic exploration of themes such as the relationship between humans and nature and the contrasts between rural and urban life. Applicants with an affinity for these themes are especially valued.
+ Post-Residency Contribution:
Artists are expected to leave a creative contribution upon completion of their residency. This could be a work of art or a theoretical reflection capturing their experiences in Plön and how the region influenced their practice.
How to Apply
+ Motivation Letter (maximum one A4 page):
Introduce yourself, describe your artistic practice, and explain your interest in participating in this residency.
+ Art-Oriented CV (maximum one A4 page)
+ Digital Portfolio:
Provide a link to your online portfolio.
Send your application to: schoehseeresidency@proton.me
The deadline of the application is 31.03.2025
Application Deadline:
31.03.2025
