Artists at Risk Connection (ARC) — international support and emergency assistance for artists at risk
When artistic practice leads to pressure, threats, censorship or forced migration, it is especially important to know that there are not only grants and open calls, but also entire international networks dedicated to protecting artists. This resource was created precisely for such situations — from emergency assistance and relocation to finding residencies, legal support and safe professional connections.
The project brings together international organisations, human rights initiatives, artist residencies, foundations and cultural institutions that support artists and cultural workers facing threats because of their creative activities. ARC functions as a navigation and coordination system: it helps identify suitable support programmes, connects users with partners and explains where to turn depending on the situation.
This resource is particularly important for artists from countries with high levels of censorship, political pressure or restrictions on freedom of expression. This includes artists from Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Afghanistan and other regions where artistic activity can lead to persecution. ARC collaborates with more than 400–800 international partners, including human rights organisations, cultural centres, artist residencies and temporary refuge programmes.
What you can find through ARC
The platform helps you access several types of support at once:
— emergency grants for immediate expenses;
— assistance with relocation and safe departure;
— legal advice;
— temporary accommodation and fellowship programmes;
— psychological and crisis support;
— resources on digital and physical safety;
— international contacts and partnership programmes.
The amount of emergency financial assistance usually ranges from $500 to $2,000, while some resilience grants can reach $3,000. These funds are not intended for project development, but for critical situations: accommodation, safety, medical expenses, relocation, legal assistance and basic support during a crisis.
Who is this resource for
It is particularly useful for:
— artists and cultural workers facing threats due to their work;
— creators living in exile or in the process of urgent relocation;
— artists in need of a safe international environment in which to continue their work;
— those seeking not only funding, but also a support system and professional protection.
ARC works with representatives from various disciplines: visual arts, music, theatre, performance, digital art, film, literature and interdisciplinary practices.
It is important to understand
that the Platform is not a traditional grant directory and is not suitable for standard searches for ‘project-based’ funding. The main criterion is the presence of risk, pressure, persecution or threats specifically linked to artistic activity. ARC specifically emphasises that support is provided to artists who are at risk due to their creative or social stance.
At the same time, the absence of an ‘ideal’ portfolio is not a key factor. In crisis situations, context, evidence of risk and the ability to explain the situation are more important. Even if an artist has no experience with international applications, ARC helps with navigation and finding suitable partners.
What makes this resource particularly valuable
Unlike many other platforms, this resource is not only about opportunities to participate, but also about preserving the very ability to continue one’s artistic practice. ARC helps artists at risk find emergency support, a safe place, temporary accommodation, a residency or a host organisation, as well as access to legal, psychological and professional assistance. This is especially important in situations of war, repression, censorship or forced migration, when a person needs not only to submit an application, but also to quickly understand where to turn and who can help.
How the process
works The website features a contact form and a separate option for those requiring urgent assistance. Applications are treated confidentially, and all communication is encrypted. Depending on the situation, ARC either provides direct assistance or refers artists to relevant international organisations, support programmes and residencies.
