About Us

We are launching the Villa Swagatam network of residencies to bring the best French talents to 16 existing residencies spread across India. In doing so, we wish to create a community of French artists and writers who will learn from the rich savoir-faire and history of the country and be willing to engage with it long-term. The chosen French residents who are chosen will have in common a strong desire to learn about India, its cultural ecosystem, and its know-how.

For this first edition we have decided to foster residency programs in the fields of literature, performing arts, and arts & craft. Writers, graphic novelists, performing artists, designers and visual artists amongst others will be given a unique opportunity to connect and interact with local key players and to dialogue with Indian cultural practices.

'Swagatam' is the Sanskrit equivalent of the French 'Bienvenue' and reflects our desire to welcome dialogue, collaboration, and exchange. This philosophy is indeed at the core of the French cultural network, which aims to encourage bilateral cooperation. The residency model is particularly appealing as it allows for longer, deeper, and more meaningful collaborations between the literary and artistic traditions of the two countries, while reducing the carbon footprint of our actions. Apply Now