Project Vision
SOC Films is initiating an international artist residency for young visionaries from Pakistan and around the world. The first of its kind to be situated in the picturesque Shigar valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Neela Asmaan aims to serve as an escape for artists to refocus and take inspiration from their surroundings to create original works.
Eligibility
The Neela Asmaan residency is open to emerging or established artists. Applicants must have a clear vision for their project that they intend to work on during their stay and convey this with transparency in their Statement of Intent. On-going projects are welcome.
Prospective residents may not be current students. However, PhD candidates may be able to apply, given that their course of study is relevant to what they intend to create during their time at Neela Asmaan.
Prospective Residents
Neela Asmaan welcomes a range of artists including but not limited to, writers, photographers, philosophers, architects, climate change warriors, visual artists and design practitioners who may take up residence for a two-week period, where they will be provided with accommodation and studio space that they can utilize to manifest their creativity.
Community engagement is a critical part of Neela Asmaan, and applicants will have the opportunity to establish meaningful connections between themselves and the local community, encouraging collaboration and cultural exchange through a workshop or performance.
For its 2025 international cycle, Neela Asmaan is soliciting applications via residencies in Lebanon, Morocco, Nepal, South Korea, and Sri Lanka.
What does the program include?
- Two weeks in residence at Neela Asmaan – dependent on the requirement of each fellow’s project.
- A private bedroom and shared spaces (bathroom, kitchen, living room, balcony) that double as studio space for fellows.
- The residency is a furnished space with internet, telephone, electricity, gas and hot water provided. The shared kitchen is equipped with essential utensils and basic grocery items for use.
- A stipend will be provided to residents, which can be used to cover their travel expenses, groceries, food and any additional expenses they incur.
What is expected from the fellows?
- At the conclusion of your stay, you must present the progress made during your time here or the finished piece should it be completed here.
- Community engagement in the form of a workshop or performance.
- Should a piece – for example, a drawing, artwork, publication – come from your work here, you recognize Neela Asmaan in your acknowledgements.
- Respect towards the community in Shigar and their lifestyle is imperative.
- Comply with the housekeeping rules of the residency during the entirety of your stay here.
The Residency
Neela Asmaan is a basic furnished space that has two private bedrooms, which will serve as studio and living space for two residents at a time. The residency offers shared spaces that include a bathroom, kitchen, living room and a balcony. For the convenience of residents, the apartment is equipped with basic furniture and kitchen appliances, and electricity, gas and a stable internet connection.