The Contemporary Art Foundation of Nepal (CAFON) was established with the core mission to promote and foster Nepali art and artists. Since its inception, CAFON has consistently supported local artists, collaborated with art institutions, and hosted exhibitions under its dedicated platform—Dalai La Art Space, located within the serene premises of Dalai La Boutique Hotel in the heart of Kathmandu.
With a commitment to cultural dialogue and creative exchange, CAFON now extends its vision through an International Artist Residency Program.
The objective is to create a platform where global and local artistic voices intersect—inviting international artists to engage with Nepal’s vibrant contemporary art scene and its rich cultural heritage. This residency offers more than just time and space to create; it offers a transformative experience rooted in a place where ancient traditions and contemporary practices coexist. Artists are invited to immerse themselves in Nepal’s layered landscapes—both physical and spiritual—while engaging with local communities, traditional knowledge, and evolving cultural narratives. Whether through quiet reflection, collaborative exploration, or public engagement, the residency fosters not just artistic growth, but a deeper sense of belonging and exchange. Here, art becomes a bridge—between places, people, and possibilities.
Online promotion through Dalai-La Art Space’s networks and digital platforms
Nestled within the vibrant labyrinth of Thamel, Kathmandu’s ever-moving cultural crossroads, the residency space unfolds inside the intimate setting of the Dalai-La Boutique Hotel. Surrounded by narrow streets alive with travelers, local rhythms, music, prayer flags, and layered histories, the space exists at the intersection of movement and stillness.
Here, the energy of the city becomes part of the creative process, a place where encounters, conversations, and fleeting moments continuously shape artistic reflection. Amid the pulse of tourism and urban life, the residency offers a contemplative refuge, inviting artists to engage with Kathmandu’s shifting textures of memory, culture, and everyday experience.
Residency Outcomes
Applications for the residency are open year-round, with no fixed deadline. The residency program is designed for a one-month period, and artists are welcome to apply for sessions taking place between June and July, at a time that aligns with their practice, research, and creative journey. The program encourages immersive engagement with Kathmandu’s cultural landscape while offering space for reflection, experimentation, and exchange.
Residency Duration
Selection Criteria
