NLB Singapore National Library Creative Residency 2026

📖 About NLB Singapore National Library Creative Residency

The programme encourages practitioners from diverse artistic disciplines to explore both digital and physical collections of the National Library, Singapore and the National Archives of Singapore. Residents reimagine historical and cultural content through innovative approaches, enabling audiences to connect with Singapore’s heritage in fresh and engaging ways.

🎁 Benefits of the Residency

• Monthly stipend: S$3,500 to cover living and local expenses.
• Project support: Up to S$6,000 reimbursement for materials and production costs.
• Resources: Access to extensive library and archival collections.
• Guidance: Engagement and support from library staff throughout the residency.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

• Singapore-based individual practitioners or collectives.
• Artists across visual and digital media, music, design, writing, and interdisciplinary practices.
• Applicants must have relevant artistic credentials, a strong portfolio, and the ability to deliver impactful creative work within six months.

📝 Application Date and Process

Required Documents:

1. Completed application form:

   • Include scanned copies of testimonials and documents at the time of application.
   • Originals or certified copies bearing the university/company seal must be presented for verification if selected.

2. Detailed proposal (not exceeding 10 pages, excluding references and annexes):

   • Comprehensive outline of the proposed topic of research, including details of the National Library Singapore (NLS) and/or National Archives of Singapore (NAS) collections and resources to be used.
   • Description of the intended outcome of the project (e.g., painting, video, performance, script) and possible platforms for showcasing the creative output.
   • Key project milestones and estimated time for each milestone.
   • Explanation of how the project will provide new perspectives on the NLS and/or NAS collections.

3. Curriculum Vitae (CV):

   • Details of research awards or residencies previously and concurrently held.
   • Professional seminars/conference papers/public lectures presented.
   • List of major publications and exhibitions participated in.
   • Portfolio of at least five (5) projects/works relevant to the proposed idea.
   • Details of any other past or current involvement in creative projects.

4. Reference letters from two referees addressing:

   • Applicant’s qualifications, ability, and experience.
   • Quality of the applicant’s previous works.
   • Capacity to complete projects within a reasonable timeframe and feasibility of the project.
   • Awareness of relevant available sources in NLS and/or NAS and their relevance to the research proposed.
   • Contribution of the project to knowledge in the field.

Submission Details:

• Applications should be emailed to NL_Creative_Residency@nlb.gov.sg by 29 May 2026.
• Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
• Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview.
• Notification of acceptance or rejection will be made within five months of the closing date.

📅 Application Deadline

29 May 2026

📩 Contact Information

For inquiries, email: NL_Creative_Residency@nlb.gov.sg

• Monthly stipend: S$3,500 to cover living and local expenses.
• Project support: Up to S$6,000 reimbursement for materials and production costs.
• Resources: Access to extensive library and archival collections.
• Guidance: Engagement and support from library staff throughout the residency.