Artist Residency in Milan, Italy

As every artist who has experienced a residency knows, it is usually a time when one is more prolific than during a normal daily routine at home.
Our Artist in Residence programs are designed to provide a creative and supportive environment in which artists may immerse themselves in creating new work and expanding their own understanding of their chosen medium.
Pig Prints artist residency programs offer experienced and less experienced printmakers an opportunity to live and work in Milan for a period of time that can go from a minimum of 1 week to a maximum of 4 weeks. Dates are not predetermined but are nominated by the applying artist.
Artists have unlimited 24/7 access to a workshop fully equipped for all intaglio and relief techniques and are accommodated in a private studio/bedroom next to the workshop. A fully equipped kitchen with all the facilities is available night and day. Wi-fi is available. Bathroom with shower.

Experienced printmakers are expected to work independently, but those interested in advancing their skills or in learning new techniques as well as those new to printmaking can make arrangements according to their needs.
To take time out from work in the studio, artists can experience the vibrant cultural city life of Milan, with its year-round museum and gallery exhibitions. The Dergano/Bovisa area, where the studio is located, was once a working-class neighborhood full of mills, warehouses and workshops. Although most of those activities are now discontinued and the buildings have been demolished and replaced, the area preserves a unique post-industrial atmosphere. Many spaces have turned into artist, designer and craft studios. New cafes, pubs and restaurants have opened in recent years besides the many existing ethnic restaurants and the few typical Milanese “trattoria” that still endure. Supermarkets, laundromats and various shops are within a few minutes walking distance.
RESIDENCY FEES 2026
These fees apply to self–led residencies for printmakers who are able to work independently at every stage of the process. Assistance is limited to basic initial support in using the spaces and equipment. Inexperienced printmakers can book an assisted or intensive residency (see below), or individual hours of instruction (€ 30 per hour).
€ 420 p/week for any additional weeks
€ 70 p/day for any additional days
Printmaking basic materials, tools and supplies are included. Paper, plates and inks are not included but can be purchased at cost.
The resident artist is expected to share the workshop and studio facilities during the day working hours (10 am-6pm, a maximum of three people at a time can use the studio) as well as for the evening events (exhibition vernissages or other) that may had been scheduled in advance.
ASSISTED AND INTENSIVE RESIDENCY
Besides our regular residency program aimed at proficient printmakers, PigPrints now offers two new types of residencies. Assisted and Intensive Residencies, both designed for artists who need either partial or total assistance in their daily printmaking practices.
ASSISTED RESIDENCY
Conceived for those artists who want to refresh their skills, want to learn new techniques, or are beginners who want to be introduced to intaglio (line etching, dry point, aquatint, softground etching etc.) and/or relief techniques (woodcut/linocut). The Assisted Residency includes 3 hours a day, 5 days per week of tuition and help covering every aspect of printmaking, from platemaking to print editioning.
Cost: € 850 per week (includes accommodation and 24/7 use of the workshop and the equipment).
INTENSIVE RESIDENCY
For those who want to deep dive into techniques, with PigPrints staff to follow you and introduce you to all the aspects and secrets of etching (and relief print if requested).
Cost: € 1200 per week, with tuition/assistance Monday through Friday 10 am-5 pm (includes accommodation and 24/7 use of the workshop and the equipment).
These residencies are also for experienced artists who want to tackle intensive printmaking projects and need professional collaboration throughout the different stages of their project.
RESIDENCIES WITHOUT ACCOMODATION
Open-access Monday to Friday 10 am- 6pm € 250/week
Unlimited 24/7 use of workshop € 380/week (only possible when no other artists are accommodated in the studio).
Hotel/BnB recommendations can be provided upon request.
IMPORTANT NOTICE! You may book your residency with accommodation only for residencies taking place through 31 December 2026. If you are planning to book a 2027 residency, please see below for details and applicable fees.
RESIDENCIES 2027
Due to changes in our organisation, from January 2027 onward accommodation will no longer be included as part of our residency programme.
Residents will continue to enjoy 24/7 access to our facilities, including the shared kitchen, but will be responsible for arranging their own accommodation.
To make the most of the 24/7 studio access, we strongly recommend staying in the local neighbourhood or in an area that is easily accessible on foot or via the metro. We will be happy to provide recommendations and assist you in finding suitable accommodation.
RESIDENCY FEES 2027
- 1 week: € 420
- 2 weeks: € 800
- Additional weeks: € 350 per week
- Additional days: € 60 per day
ASSISTED RESIDENCY (includes 15 hours instruction)
€ 700/week
INTENSIVE RESIDENCY (includes 30 hours instruction)
€ 1000/week
How to Apply
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with no deadlines or application fees. To apply, please send an email including the following information:
1. Preferred Dates and Duration of your residency. If your dates are not flexible please inquire about accommodation availability before completing your application.
2. A Brief Introduction about yourself (your name, your nationality and current country of residence), including a link to your portfolio, details of your printmaking experience, and your current printmaking practice.
3. Residency Type you’re interested in: independent, assisted, or intensive, and whether you would prefer accommodation (available only for 2026 residencies).
4. Funding Information: Please specify if your residency will be self-funded or if you are relying on external funding (e.g., grants, fellowships).
5. Goals and Motivations: Share the objectives you hope to achieve during your residency and the work you intend to develop here (if you have any specific plans). Also, please let us know how you learnt about PigPrints and why you are choosing this studio for your residency.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. However, if your dates are not flexible feel free to send us an email to check availability before completing the application.
Upon acceptance, a 40% deposit is required to confirm your residency and secure your dates. The deposit is non-refundable. However, if you are unable to attend for any reason, you may reschedule your residency to a later date.
Payments can be made by bank transfer, Revolut or PayPal (for PayPal payments, an additional 3% is added to share the transaction fee equally.). The full residency fee is due before the start of your residency. We typically respond to applications within a few days. If you don’t hear back within a week, it’s possible there was an issue with your email delivery. Please follow up or reach out to us via Instagram (@pigprints).
NEW! PigPrints Residency Program for Artists of All Disciplines
PigPrints is now offering a new opportunity for non-printmaker artists to experience our studio. While we have traditionally catered to experienced printmakers, we are now opening our doors to a broader community of creative professionals. For a limited time, we are offering a maximum of two-week residencies where artists will have exclusive access to both our studio and accommodation, 24/7.
ELIGIBLE ARTISTS
• Painters: Our studio provides an easel and all necessary workspace. Artists are responsible for supplying their own canvases, paints, brushes, and other materials.
• Multimedia Artists & Drawing Specialists: You are welcome to bring your preferred tools and materials. We do ask that you avoid using toxic or hazardous substances and equipment.
• Ceramists: While we do not have a kiln onsite, there is an option to fire work at a neighboring ceramic studio. Please arrange this in advance with the studio.
• Writers & Musicians: Our tranquil and inspiring environment is perfect for writers and musicians. Musicians are encouraged to bring their own instruments (excluding large instruments, like a grand piano!).
• Other Artists: If your practice doesn’t fit into one of the above categories, feel free to inquire about eligibility.
Acceptance to the residency is based on a detailed discussion about your practice and how it aligns with the opportunities our space offers.
COST & INCLUSIONS
The residency cost is € 800 per week. This fee covers:
• Exclusive use of the studio and apartment (24/7)
• Accommodation
• Basic amenities
Additional Opportunities
During your stay, visual artists can choose to take an introductory course in either intaglio or relief printmaking. This is a great opportunity to experiment with printmaking, regardless of your primary medium. We look forward to welcoming artists from diverse backgrounds and seeing the creative projects that emerge from this unique environment.
For more information visit our FAQs page
Words from the Print Shop
What Artists Say
This has been such a wonderful experience working at Pig Prints and sharing ideas, beliefs, cocktails and art together. This is such a special place and it has so many caring touches that make it welcoming.
Edward Steffanni, Providence, Usa, June 2026
What a delightful experience, everything, the studio, the apartment and Dergano, I love this neighborhood! It’s exactly what I needed, fabulous pastries from Fabio Del Duca and the time and freedom to work. Thank you for creating this artist residency and shared community.
Maude Andrade, Albuquerque NM USA, May 2026
It has been so fun to work in the studio for the past two weeks. Thank you Guido for your expertise and guidance, and for being the most relaxed printmaker even when your press blankets get dirty…..I have very much enjoyed our coffees and chats, Milan is a great place to come and explore, and I only began to see its history and art and people – more time is needed! The library is one of my favourite parts of the studio, finishing up a day of printing with one of those great books was a joy.
Kate Walton, Glasgow UK May 2026
I had the loveliest time here at PigPrints. Can’t thank you enough for your generosity, sharing this beautiful special space you created – and for your patient kindness in sharing your wisdom and experience. I also loved wandering Milano, learning the neighborhood, sketching cafes, the markets, the vintage shops, the buildings, the museums, the vibrant people, the fabulous food. This trip was challenging to me and nourishing, all in deep and wonderful ways.
Julie Eastwood, Virginia, Usa, April 2026
A wonderful, productive, blissful two weeks at the PigPrints Studio. Thank you! It was fantastic!
Marcus Rees Roberts, London UK March 2026
My visit to Pigprints has been extraordinarily happy and fruitful. Guido is the best of teachers, quietly effective, humorous and amiable, constantly leading by demonstration, then gently encouraging emulation and independent action, while standing ready to correct. The workshop, bedroom and kitchen have been splendid; exploring the charming neighborhood and seeing a little of the beautiful city has been an added pleasure.
Ian Marr, Australia, March 2026
Grazie mille per tutto! It has been an honour working here in your studio and being able to learn so much from you. Grateful for this special time and all the beautiful work I’m able to take home with me.
Isabel Cutrona, Munich, Germany, March 2026
Third time around! Wonder why? Because this place works for me! Enjoyed your company and the equipment and your wonderful library. Thanx for a lovely week full of printing – but also good talks about printing – and other important aspects of life. I will definitely come back again. Thanks for it all!
Claus Lynnggard, Copenhagen, Denmark, October 2025
Dos semanas llenas de compartir experiencias en el mundo del grabado. El ambiente tranquilo e inspirador, una atmósfera de trabajo muy enriquecedora. Tienes una biblioteca maravillosa. Yo, ratona de biblioteca, la disfruté mucho.
Ileana Moya, Costa Rica, September 2025
I spent one week on a one-on-one tutorial with Guido. He patiently taught and took me through all the processes of all the random work I wanted to do. Some were successful and some were just a total mystery as to what I did accidentally. I highly recommend doing a residency with Guido. He’s a very knowledgeable and talented teacher. Plus the studio is in a great spot! Felt very safe as a woman on my own.
Angelica Rowe, Melbourne, Australia, July 2025
I was delighted to win the 2024 Pigprints Fellowship. The studio was so well equipped and friendly I instantly felt at home. I met some beautiful people during my stay. Guido was very chilled, considering he had a solo show in progress. Amazing professional studio and Master Printer.
Karen Daye-Hutchinson, Belfast, N. Ireland, April 2025
4 weeks in residence at Pigprints. Produced five woodcuts, two large, two small, one medium-sized. It is a great studio to concentrate, create works and be fully myself.
Seong Cho, Sydney, Australia, February-March 2025
Thank you for your guidance and expertise. Three weeks of pure printmaking heaven. My favorite place in Milan?? 1) Guido’s studio 2) St. Ambrogio Basilica!!
Lyn Williamson, Perth, Australia, January 2025
A wonderful quiet place with beautiful presses. A very cozy place to sleep. And what a funny experience to brush my teeth while walking around in the studio! Milano has a lot to see, I’d really love to come back!
Ina Brekelmans, Amsterdam NL, October 2024
This has been an incredible experience for me. A true crash course in printmaking. The layout and setup of the studio is for me – perfect. The vibe and the music is just up my alley!
Loui Terrier, Brooklyn, Usa, Sepember 2023
Guido, it’s been so lovely staying here and working alongside you in this beautiful studio. Thank you for your patience and for sharing all your amazing knowledge with me.
Lisa Callaghan, Manorhamilton, Ireland, July 2023
Ma résidence à Pig Prints a été vraiment très intéressante. Guido m’a très généreusement appris beaucoup de choses et je lui en suis très reconnaissante. Merci!
Sophie Dloussky, Nice, France, April 2022
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