The Artist-in-Residence Exchange Programme (AIR) was initiated in 2017 by basis e.V., Lostgens’ Contemporary Arts Space, and the Goethe-Institut Malaysia to support and advance contemporary visual art practices while fostering international exchange between Germany and Malaysia. From 2026 onwards, Think & Tink joins as the new residency host partner in Malaysia, with Kuching, Sarawak designated as the new host city for the German artist’s residency.

The programme is intended for professional artists working in visual, discursive, or performative fields, with a minimum of three years of continuous artistic practice. Consideration is given to project proposals that are site-specific and collaborative in nature, and which engage with local contexts and communities. The residency places emphasis on research, artistic experimentation, and dialogue with artists, curators, cultural practitioners, and local initiatives.

The programme's application platform opens once a year for submissions. Applicants are required to digitally submit a completed application form, a letter of motivation and aproject proposal.

A panel of juries in each city will shortlist the applicants. This shortlist will be sent to the final juries in the host countries, who will choose the scholarship winner. The jury’s decision is final. In Malaysia, only shortlisted applicants will be notified. The winner will be announced on the institute’s social media and website.

The residency lasts three months in the host city. The recipient will receive €1,000 per month for living expenses. The host organization will provide return flight tickets, three months of accommodation, a working studio, curatorial support, and help connecting with the local artist network. The recipient can also present a project at the end of the residency, with financial support provided.