The international artist residency program
Among its missions, NEF Animation supports the writing and the creative research in the field of animated film by developping artist residency programs that encourage international mobility. The International Residency for Animated Films is hosted and coproduced by the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, one of the most important sites of the Loire valley (France).
The International Residency for Animated Films offers creators a unique opportunity to devote an entire month to their projects, free from material constraints, in a peaceful and inspiring environment. It also provides a space for encounters and exchanges with other artists in residence.
Since its creation, the residency has welcomed around 260 animation filmmakers and artists from 52 countries.
Applicants may submit any personal animated film project—short, medium, or feature-length. Projects exploring new or hybrid forms of animation (art installations, virtual reality, transmedia, video mapping, TV series or specials, animated documentaries, etc.) are also eligible.
This residency program receives financial support from the French Ministry of Culture through the ACCR’s “Odyssée–NORA” program. It is also supported by the Pays de la Loire Region, the DRAC Pays de la Loire, the CNC, and the SACD.
The call for applications for a residency in October 2026 or April 2027 is now open. Applications must be submitted by March 15th, 2026 (11:59 p.m.) through the online form on this website.
Please make sure to read the full call for applications before submitting your application. All applications must be submitted through the online form. Applicants must clearly indicate their availability in October, in April, or for both residency periods. Selected candidates will be assigned to either the April or the October session, depending on available capacity.