Applications open for month-long artistic learning and development opportunity in India

Artists can apply online now for the Vedaaranya Artists’ Learning & Development Opportunity Ramgarh Shekhawati Rajasthan which will take place in India between January – February 2027 to coincide with the Vhah Festival (29 January – 2 February 2027), a cultural festival focused on heritage, togetherness and health.

The Learning and Development opportunity is another strand of the National Lottery Support for Individual Artists Programme and is open to artists of most disciplines, but is particularly suited to visual artists, craftspeople and designers working in textiles and jewellery, dance, music and theatre to fit with priorities, traditions and developments in the location.

The selected artist will travel to the historic town of Ramgarh Shekhawati in the princely state of Rajasthan, which was one of the richest towns in 19th century India. The artist will be required to attend the Vhah Festival and engage with young people and local community groups and/or undertake school workshops. This is not a structured programme - it is an opportunity travel to/ within India and be immersed in unique cultural experiences that can foster creativity, encourage artistic exploration and inspiration. 

Funding information 

The value of this Learning and Development Opportunity is £3,720, which covers:

• Accommodation costs inclusive of three meals per day and teas and coffee twice a day
• Access to Library, studio space and museum
• Free Wi-Fi
• Local doctor
• Provision of workshop and research materials
• Access to local artist or crafts persons for collaborative work
• Heritage Walk & Travel Sightseeing or Heritage spaces by car of heritage spaces in Ramgarh and adjoining town
• Additional offers will be discussed with the successful artist. 

The Arts Council will cover: 

• Travel Costs - return flights to Delhi £1,000
• Hotel Costs - Delhi (2 nights) £100
• Internal transport to and from Delhi, organised in collaboration with host
• The cost of the Tourist Visa, up to £100, which the artist must arrange
• Stipend £500
• Vaccination costs up to £400
• Travel Insurance and other travel costs e.g. travel to/from departure airport/hotel night before flight/transporting or insuring instrument/equipment up to £400
• Access NI Basic Check, £16 

For more information on eligibility and details of how to apply visit Vedaaranya Artists’ Learning and Development… | Arts Council NI

Past awardee experience 

Last year’s selected artist was Co Fermanagh Visual Artist, Diane Henshaw. She travelled to Ramgarh Shekhawati Rajasthan in January 2026 where she facilitated workshops, collaborated on a community mural and developed traditional pigmentation skills. Best known for her socially engaged projects and ecological research, this was an opportunity for Diane to further develop her career after her previous international residencies and exhibits.

Diane Henshaw commented on the experience: “Being in residence at Vedaaranya Haveli in Shekawati was an incredibly grounding and enriching experience. I delivered workshops and worked with local women and children to develop a socially engaged public artwork mural, exploring ideas of ecology, sustainability, and what it means to become citizens of a shared biological multiverse.

“Learning about pigmentation using traditional techniques, seeing the beautiful artwork in the streets and buildings, and experiencing the music in the local Vhah Festival were all highlights of the trip. The residency connected closely with my wider research into ecological art practices and holistic ways of living, and it was a privilege to be working in a place so deeply rooted in cultural exchange and community. I’d recommend other artists to apply for this opportunity.”

This international opportunity is the result of links forged with key cultural institutions in India by the Arts Council and British Council as a platform for creating, sharing and promoting the creative arts.

For information on the other funding support for individual artists visit: Applications now open for funding for individual… | Arts Council NI