Apply now for the NAAS Research and Curatorial Fellowship 2025–2026, a fully funded 9–10 month program supporting critical research and curation in Arab cinema and visual culture. Open to all nationalities.
Overview
Are you passionate about Arab cinema, visual storytelling, or alternative film histories? The NAAS Research and Curatorial Fellowship 2025–2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to dive into creative and critical explorations of Arab media, cinema, and visual culture. This fully funded fellowship—hosted by the Network of Arab Alternative Screens (NAAS)—runs for 9–10 months and is open to curators, researchers, film programmers, writers, cultural organizers, and academics from all nationalities, including the Arab diaspora.
Whether you’re interested in challenging dominant narratives or spotlighting marginalized archives, this program is your platform to reshape the discourse around Arab cinema and culture through research, public programming, and publication.
Fellowship Timeline
- Program Duration: November 2025 – July 2026
- Application Deadline: August 22, 2025
Ideal Project Themes
The NAAS Fellowship encourages innovative, research-based projects that:
- Challenge dominant or inherited cinematic narratives
- Uncover marginalized or overlooked film/media archives
- Use curatorial experimentation to engage new audiences
- Explore alternative Arab film histories
- Bridge academic scholarship with public programming and engagement
Why You Should Apply
This fellowship goes beyond funding. It offers:
- A collaborative learning environment
- Exposure to global curators and researchers
- An opportunity to shape the future of Arab cinema discourse
- Publication in Malaffat, NAAS’s journal
- Opportunities to present your work at interim and final stages
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- A stipend to support research expenses
- Mentorship from seasoned professionals
- Monthly virtual seminars with field experts
- Two in-person colloquiums (travel covered)
- A platform to publish in the Malaffat journal
- Research presentation opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
The NAAS Fellowship is open to:
- Individuals, duos, or collectives
- Researchers, curators, writers, film programmers, artists, and cultural organizers
- Applicants from all nationalities, as long as the project focuses on Arab cultural contexts
No formal academic background is required—experience and a strong proposal are what matter most.
Application Process
To apply:
- Visit the NAAS Fellowship Application Portal
- Read the fellowship concept and FAQ documents
- Fill out the application form with your project proposal and personal details
- Submit your application before the deadline: August 22, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an academic degree to apply?
No. Applicants from non-academic backgrounds—such as artists, filmmakers, and organizers—are encouraged to apply.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes. It includes a stipend, mentorship, research support, travel for colloquiums, and publication opportunities.
Can I apply as part of a team or collective?
Yes. Be sure to define roles and the collaborative framework clearly in your application.
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