Transatlantic Rising Stars Project
The Transatlantic Rising Stars Project, known as “Transatlantic Stars,” is a three-year initiative of the European Union Delegation to the U.S. based in Washington, D.C. It opens doors to the U.S. cultural landscape for European artists and creates opportunities for American and European artists to work together hand-in-hand. Ultimately, the project aims to advance artistic development, foster dialogue, build community, and boost visual artists, musicians, and film makers on both sides of the Atlantic.
What is This Project About?
Transatlantic Stars brings European talent to meet American artists, local communities, and industry leaders — encouraging co-creation and building lasting relationships. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, it contributes to a more connected transatlantic cultural space. These exchanges strengthen Europe’s cultural sector through new partnerships and perspectives, while giving American communities and artists opportunities to engage with diverse European voices, values, and approaches to practice.
The project consists of three strands: One for visual artists, one for musicians and one for filmmakers. Each strand blends creative exploration with structured guidance, industry engagement, and opportunities to share work with the public. Selected artists join a cohort-and-alumni network designed to sustain connections, spark new projects, and open long-term opportunities on both sides of the Atlantic.
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Creative Fields in Focus
Each year, Transatlantic Stars supports artists in three sectors through on-the-ground experiences in the United States.
- Visual Arts: Eight-week residencies and collaborations with U.S. counterparts rooted in communities across the United States, supporting new work and inviting audiences in through extensive public engagement. A total of 5 artists will be selected and individually placed within existing residency programs.
- Film: A two-week exploration of the American film world for EU film directors. An intimate filmmaker retreat and showcase at the Berkshire International Film Festival, followed by a capstone immersion in Los Angeles, connecting filmmakers with peers, mentors, and the U.S. industry. A total of 5 film directors will be selected, who will experience the program as a group.
- Music: A two-week exploration of the American music landscape for EU musicians. Collaboration with U.S. peers in songwriting, recording, and live performance, alongside practical training and moments to share work with American audiences. A total of 5 artists will be selected to experience the program as a group.
What This Project Offers
- Fully Funded Participation: Travel, accommodation, and core program costs covered, as well as offering artist stipends.
- Professional Growth: Mentorship, peer-to-peer collaboration, and learning tailored to each artist’s goals and discipline.
- Industry Access: Curated introductions to U.S. cultural networks, venues, and sector leaders.
- Visibility: Exhibition and presentation opportunities during artist residences, film festivals, and live performances, as well as digital promotion.
- Lasting Impact: New perspectives, relationships, and collaborations that strengthen artistic practice across the Atlantic.
VISUAL ART STRAND
This strand welcomes applications from EU visual artists of all mediums interested in U.S.-based collaboration and opportunities to engage with diverse voices, ideas, and approaches to creative practice.
The call for applications for the 2026 Artist-in-Residence Program closed on November 30, 2025. Subscribe to the mailing list below to get updates for when the call opens again.
FILM STRAND
This strand welcomes applications from EU film directors interested in exploring the U.S. film industry, strengthening transatlantic creative exchange, and engaging American audiences through European storytelling.
The call for applications portal is now open until January 16, 2026 11:59 PM CET.
MUSIC STRAND
This strand welcomes applications from mid-career EU songwriters and performers interested in exploring the U.S. music industry, co-creating new work with American artists, and sharing that music with U.S. audiences.
The call for applications portal is open from December 15, 2025, to January 21, 2026, 11:59 PM CET.
Get in Touch
If you’d like to reach the Visual Arts Team, contact arts@trsproject.eu.
Questions about the Film Program call for applications can be sent to film@trsproject.eu.
If you have questions about applying to the Music Program, with its call for applications now open, write to music@trsproject.eu.
For anything else related to Transatlantic Stars, you can reach us at info@trsproject.eu. We’re always glad to hear from you. And while you’re here, subscribe to our mailing list to stay connected and be the first to hear about new calls, residencies, and artist exchanges.
