Program Overview
Bogliasco Fellowships are merit-based and awarded to gifted artists and scholars without regard to nationality, age, race, gender, religion, physical ability or any other status. Applicants may propose projects on any subject area in the following disciplines:
- Archaeology
- Architecture
- Classics
- Dance
- Film/Video
- History
- Landscape Architecture
- Literature
- Music
- Philosophy
- Public Humanities
- Theater
- Visual Arts
In the Arts, the Center welcomes individuals doing both creative and scholarly work.
SELECTION PROCESS
Bogliasco's selection process is based entirely on peer review by discipline, and a policy of rotating evaluators for each selection round to minimize bias. These international panelists include many Bogliasco alumni, as well as other distinguished professionals in all the disciplines. Panels evaluate applicants in each discipline based on achievement in their respective fields, commensurate with age, and the significance and potential impact of the project proposal.
An oversight committee of specialists in each discipline reviews the initial selection reports and assists in crafting small residency groups of eight to ten Fellows, based on diversity of nationality, age, gender and discipline. A typical residency cohort includes one individual from each discipline area, an age range between 30 and 80, a mix of genders, and at least half from countries outside the United States.
Bogliasco awards approximately 60 one-month Fellowships each year.
STUDY CENTER FACILITIES AND DAILY LIFE
The Bogliasco Center's main building, the Villa dei Pini, is located close to the Via Aurelia, which follows the traces of the ancient road built by the Romans to connect their capital to Ventimiglia and France. The property features a mature Genoese garden, shaded by pine trees, that drops steeply to the rocky shore of the Mediterranean. While surrounded by a bustling semi-urban environment, the villa and its gardens offer an oasis of calm, with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Ligurian coastline — an inspiring setting that has proven to be a powerful stimulant for reflection and creativity.
During their month-long stay at the Center, Bogliasco Fellows are provided with living quarters (bedroom with private bath), full board, and a work space or separate studio, depending on the discipline. All meals are shared, and every evening, Fellows come together for a served dinner featuring typical local cuisine from the region of Liguria. While residencies are expected to lead to published or performed works, Bogliasco Fellows have no specific work requirements or obligatory formal presentations. With the burden of daily chores lifted, Bogliasco Fellows may work and create as they choose in this vibrant and supportive environment.
The Bogliasco Center encourages Fellows to learn about and interact with the local community. An introductory organized tour of Genoa and its cultural resources is available for each group, as are informal Italian lessons. Through partnerships with local organizations, Bogliasco Fellows are frequently invited to participate in prominent events in Genoa, such as the International Poetry Festival and the Science Festival. Fellows receive invitations to attend cultural events at the major theaters, palazzos and opera house of Genoa, and to meet local artists and scholars working in their discipline if they so choose.
For Bogliasco Fellows, the time and space to create in complete freedom, combined with the stimulating company of diverse colleagues in this intimate setting, results in an intellectual and creative exchange that is particularly potent and long-lasting. A spirited discussion around the dinner table often generates fresh inspiration and unexpected directions: new ideas and collaborations blossom. Many Fellows tell us that the unique environment fostered at the Study Center influences their work for years to come.
PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Although there is no cost for a residency, Fellows are responsible for their own travel to and from the Center. Subject to availability, and if requested in the application, Fellows may be accompanied by spouses/partners during their stay at the Center for a nominal daily fee. Spouses/partners who intend to pursue a project in one of the disciplines, and who wish to be designated as Bogliasco Fellows, must submit separate and complete applications. The Center cannot accommodate children or other family members. At minimum, Fellows must be able to speak conversational English to communicate in this international community, where the common language is typically English.
The Bogliasco Center buildings are accessible. One fully ADA-compliant bedroom with a private bathroom is available for a resident in our program. We can accommodate most special needs with advanced notice. For any special requests or questions about accessibility, please contact us at [email protected].
It is assumed that Fellows will remain at the Bogliasco Center for the duration of their residencies, bringing with them the materials needed to complete their work.
Fellowships are scheduled during the two semesters of the traditional academic year: September-December, and January-May. The Bogliasco Center does not offer summer residencies.
The dates of the Spring 2026 residency sessions will be:
March 17 – April 16
April 21 – May 21
For further information about applications and to apply, click here.