Artists and arts organisations benefit from international collaboration, yet many in Portugal, the UK and other countries face barriers to opportunities, funding and other avenues for growth. We aim to build connections across borders to help nurture talent, facilitate new ideas and support professional development.

In the UK, institutions are actively rebuilding international cultural ties post-Brexit, yet channels for collaboration are limited. For artists and cultural professionals, mobility and work opportunities can be difficult to navigate. In Portugal, and in Portuguese-speaking African countries, the sector faces structural challenges including limited international resources or networks, and uneven career progression. At the same time, these countries are increasingly visible on the international arts map, creating new momentum and opportunities for deeper exchange.

The Foundation has a track record of promoting innovative and transdisciplinary arts and cultural work, and a long history of fostering UK-Portugal artistic collaboration.

Our approach

The Foundation aims to strengthen artistic exchange and collaboration between Portugal, Portuguese-speaking African countries, the UK and Armenia. This area of work supports emerging and mid-career artists, professionals and arts organisations to develop skills, expand networks and gain international visibility.

With its global reputation for the arts and robust professional infrastructure, the UK offers valuable opportunities for artists and arts professionals to strengthen their practice, grow networks and access world-class training and development. By supporting collaboration and mutual exchange between the UK and the vibrant arts sector in Portugal and beyond, the Foundation is contributing to greater sustainability for the cultural sector and for arts professionals across these contexts.

This area of work also facilitates collaborative work between UK and Portuguese institutions on shared social challenges. Activities are delivered in collaboration with other units of the Foundation, including the France Delegation and the Modern Art Centre (CAM).

Key areas of action

Increasing the presence of Portuguese and PALOP arts in UK institutions

Supporting UK arts organisations interested in presenting work from Portugal and Portuguese-speaking countries through exhibitions, performances and other public showcases.

Opportunities for the professionalisation of artists and for artistic creation

Providing opportunities for artists from Portugal, Portuguese-speaking African countries and Armenia to develop their practice, engage with international networks, and participate in UK festivals or residencies.

Professional development for cultural workers and technicians

Creating pathways for cultural professionals and technicians to access world-class training, skills development and networking opportunities.

Collaboration between organisations on shared social issues

Supporting partnerships and exchange opportunities for Portuguese and UK arts organisations to develop work that addresses social issues.

Photo: Earthworks by Mónica de Miranda, commissioned by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation UK Branch and Somerset House Trust. Credit: Jim Winslet