Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of art and innovation! The bicentenary of photography is almost here, and BMW Group France is celebrating in a big way!
BMW ART MAKERS: Unveiling the 2026 Edition
BMW ART MAKERS, a patronage program dedicated to nurturing emerging talent and contemporary imagery, is now accepting applications for its fifth edition. This initiative is a testament to BMW's passion for supporting artistic creativity, especially as we commemorate the 200th anniversary of photography's invention by Nicéphore Niépce.
A Visionary's Legacy
Nicéphore Niépce, a true visionary of the early 19th century, not only gave us the first permanent photograph in 1826 but also co-invented the internal combustion engine alongside his brother Claude. These groundbreaking inventions have shaped our world in profound ways, influencing not just mobility but also our visual perception and cultural expression.
BMW's Commitment to Creativity
BMW, a brand at the intersection of mobility and creativity, has been actively supporting photographic patronage for over a decade. From the BMW residency at the Niépce Museum in Chalon-sur-Saône, which began in 2010, to the launch of the BMW ART MAKERS program in 2021, BMW has been fostering artistic exploration and innovation.
The 2026 Call for Applications
To celebrate photography's bicentenary, BMW ART MAKERS invites artists and curators to honor this rich heritage while envisioning projects that look towards the future. This exceptional edition encourages participants to explore the intricate connections between images, innovation, and transformation, highlighting the role of creativity in shaping a responsible and sustainable future.
A Call to Reimagine
Since 1826, photography has been at the forefront of cultural and technological evolution, much like BMW's vision for intelligent and human-centric mobility. Artist-curator duos are invited to propose projects that reimagine our relationship with images, movement, and progress. The deadline for applications is December 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m., with the winning duo to be announced in January 2026.
BMW ART MAKERS: What's on Offer?
The winning duo will receive a range of support, including:
- A grant of €10,000 for the artist
- A grant of €8,000 for the curator
- A budget of €15,000 for research and production
- The opportunity to showcase their work at prestigious events like Paris Photo and the Rencontres d'Arles
- Coordination and communication support
Project Requirements
The project should:
- Innovate or experiment with the medium
- Feature a carefully designed and reusable scenography for both the Rencontres d'Arles and Paris Photo
- Prioritize the sober and responsible use of resources
- Provide an artistic perspective on contemporary issues
Apply Now!
Applications are open until December 31, 2025, on the dedicated BMW ART MAKERS application platform. For more information, visit the official Instagram account @bmwgroupculture_fr. The nominated duos will be contacted in early January to present their projects to the jury.
A Longstanding Commitment to Culture
BMW's dedication to culture spans over 50 years, believing that artists are pioneers who can anticipate and address the challenges of their time. This commitment is evident in its long-standing partnerships with Paris Photo (23 years) and the Rencontres Photographiques d'Arles (15 years). By supporting emerging talents and the international art scene, BMW has played a pivotal role in promoting artistic innovation and the hybridization of techniques across contemporary art, music, architecture, design, and photography.
Join the Conversation
What do you think about the role of art in shaping our future? How can artists and curators use their creativity to address contemporary issues? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We'd love to hear your unique perspectives and engage in a thought-provoking discussion.
