A Space for Deep Work
Kyara Arthouse welcomes artists who wish to connect with the culture, environment, and artistic influences of Viet Nam—specifically the distinctive character of Hoi An and its multi-layered history. We welcome visual artists, writers, curators, sound artists, film-makers, and creative practitioners working across all disciplines.
Residencies run from a minimum of two weeks to a maximum of around two months. Two weeks is the sweet spot where artists begin to develop a genuine sense of place and respond to Hoi An. We co-design and support programmes according to each artist's goals—connecting them with the local art and artisan community, providing workspace, and offering our own networks, expertise, and cultural connections.
We don't have a specific bias in terms of art practice. The best fit is an artist with a semi-independent approach—someone who values guidance and connection but can structure their own time and is genuinely curious about Hoi An's history, culture, and surrounding environment.
What We Provide
Our residency is designed to support meaningful creative work through both practical resources and cultural connections.
Studio Space
A semi-enclosed studio of approximately 20sqm adjacent to the loft-style accommodation—purpose-built for longer stays with natural light and open-air access.
Accommodation
Private room with air conditioning, ceiling fans, and ensuite bathroom. Swimming pool and garden access included. Three rooms available, including a loft suite and a room suited for up to three people.
Shared Facilities
Ground-floor shared kitchen with refrigerator, cooking equipment, and tea/coffee facilities. Working tables and reliable internet throughout. Laundry available on-site.
Cultural Connections
Personal introductions to the local and international artist community in and around Hoi An, including painters, textile artists, calligraphers, and artisans working in ceramics, boat-building, bamboo, and more.
Exhibition & Event Space
Access to our ~75sqm gallery and event space, which has hosted art exhibitions, theatre, musical performances, lectures, and film screenings.
Workshops
Kyara hosts natural dye, embroidery, and textile arts workshops run by Pham Ngoc Tram and Meo Meo Atelier. Artists in residence are welcome to participate and can propose their own workshops or events.
Residency Structure
Duration
Residencies run from a minimum of two weeks to a maximum of around two months. If an artist is responding positively to Kyara and Hoi An and wishes to stay longer, we are open to extending beyond two months.
Best Time to Visit
Mid-January through mid-May is our recommended window—without storms and before intense summer heat. Late May to August is hot and humid tropics, though still very much possible. September can be a beautiful change of season, though the typhoon period is increasingly unpredictable. Hoi An also hosts many cultural festivals throughout the year which can be timed for specific visits.
Daily Life
Artists structure their own time. We are enthusiastic advisors, connectors, and supporters—not tour guides. We facilitate introductions to the local community, share our cultural networks, and can help source materials with sufficient advance planning. Artists are responsible for their own food, transport, and materials. Hoi An is a food lover's smorgasbord—eating out locally is usually the best option.
Past Residents
Kyara has hosted artists working across photography, textile, sound, and visual practice.
2024 · Photography & Pigment Research
Isabelle Le Minh
Isabelle Le Minh (France/Vietnam) spent two months at Kyara conducting photographic research into plant-based pigment printing. Her residency was developed in partnership with the French Institute of Vietnam's Villa Saigon programme, connecting her practice with the botanical and textile heritage of the region.
Her open studio exhibition Restitution — Photogenèse presented the outcomes of this research to the public in Kyara's gallery space.
How to Apply
We accept applications on a rolling basis and review submissions quarterly. Applications should include:
- Artist statement (max 500 words)
- Project proposal for residency period (max 1000 words)
- CV or resume
- Portfolio (10-15 images or relevant work samples)
- Two references (names and contact information)
When to Apply
We accept enquiries on a rolling basis. The best time for residencies is mid-January through mid-May. Get in touch to discuss timing, duration, and availability.
Questions? Email kyarahoian@gmail.com
Join Our Creative Community
The residency program is central to our mission of cultural exchange and artistic practice.