Artisera, in partnership with Brigade Group, has opened applications for the inaugural edition of THRESHOLD, a national artist development programme designed to support practising Indian visual artists through financial assistance, mentorship, professional development and exhibition opportunities.
The six-month programme will select six artists from across India and provide each participant with a ₹1 lakh granttowards the creation of new work. Alongside financial support, the programme includes mentorship, workshops, studio visits, professional documentation and opportunities to engage with collectors, curators and the wider arts community.
Opportunity Overview
Launched by Artisera in July 2026, THRESHOLD was conceived in response to a need identified through the gallery’s long-term engagement with artists. The programme aims to support artists who have already invested years in building a professional practice but may benefit from greater access to resources, mentorship, visibility and professional networks.
Brigade Group has joined the initiative as the Title Partner, supporting the inaugural cohort and contributing to the programme’s broader objective of strengthening opportunities for artists at a critical stage in their careers.
Selected artists will be encouraged to develop their own artistic practices rather than respond to a prescribed brief or commission. The programme is structured to provide sustained support over an extended period while enabling artists to create new bodies of work.
Eligibility
Applications are open to:
- Indian citizens
- Practising visual artists aged between 28 and 50 years
- Artists with a minimum of six years of committed artistic practice
Eligible disciplines include:
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Printmaking
- Photography
- Textile-based practices
- Installation art
- Digital art
- Interdisciplinary practices
Programme Benefits
The six selected artists will receive:
- ₹1,00,000 grant towards the creation of new work
- One-on-one mentorship
- Studio visits and workshops
- Professional documentation support
- Interactions with collectors and arts professionals
- Access to professional networks
- Exhibitions across Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad
The resulting exhibitions will provide opportunities for artists to engage with audiences, collectors, curators and fellow practitioners across three cities.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 1 August 2026
- Application Deadline: 20 September 2026
- Selection Process: 21 September – 26 October 2026
- Programme Duration: 10 November 2026 – 28 February 2027
- Exhibitions: March – April 2027
About the Partners
Founded in 2015 by Varun Backliwal and Lisa Jain, Artisera is a Bengaluru-based gallery that presents contemporary Indian art alongside traditional art and culturally significant collectibles. Through exhibitions, artist collaborations and public programming, the gallery works to foster engagement between artists, collectors and audiences.
Brigade Group, established in 1986, is one of India’s leading real estate developers. Beyond its work in residential, commercial, retail and hospitality sectors, the company has supported cultural initiatives including the Indian Music Experience Museum in Bengaluru, India’s first interactive music museum.
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Application Process
Applications for the inaugural edition of THRESHOLD are currently open. Interested artists can review programme guidelines and submit applications through the official THRESHOLD webpage.
The selection process will be conducted through a jury-led review, following which six artists will be chosen to participate in the programme.
Event at a Glance
| Event | Details |
| Opportunity Name | THRESHOLD Artist Development Programme |
| Title Partner | Brigade Group |
| Eligibility | Indian visual artists aged 28–50 with a minimum of six years of committed artistic practice |
| Applications | 1 August – 20 September 2026 |
| Benefits | ₹1 lakh grant, mentorship, professional development, studio visits and exhibitions in Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad |
| Programme Dates | 10 November 2026 – 28 February 2027 |
| Exhibitions | March – April 2027 |
| Mode of Operation | Online and offline |
| Application Link | www.artisera.com/pages/threshold |
Takeaway
THRESHOLD seeks to support artists at a significant stage in their professional journey by combining financial assistance, mentorship and exhibition opportunities. The programme offers a structured platform for selected artists to expand their visibility and connect with audiences, collectors and institutions across multiple cities.
