Program Overview

The TICA Student Artist Mentorship Program is specially designed for young and emerging artists in India, aged 21 and under, who are beginning to explore their creative potential. If you’re wondering “how can I grow as a student artist in India?” or “how can I gain early exposure as a young artist?”, this program provides a carefully structured pathway to help you develop both your skills and confidence.

Our program offers personalized mentorship from experienced contemporary artists and curators, early opportunities to showcase your work, workshops, peer critique sessions, and a supportive community of fellow students and young practitioners. We focus on building foundational skills, guiding portfolio development, and introducing students to the professional art ecosystem without any commercial pressure.

Beyond creative guidance, TICA provides practical support with financial transparency, including low commission rates, simplified GST handling, and zero platform fees, making it easy for student artists to start their first professional sales. The program also emphasizes building a professional profile and exhibition history, creating a credible portfolio that can serve as a springboard to the Emerging Artist Program and beyond.

By joining this mentorship program, students gain not only technical skills but also the confidence, mentorship, and exposure necessary to take meaningful first steps in their artistic careers. TICA is committed to nurturing young artists, helping them find their unique voice, and providing the tools and community to thrive in India’s contemporary art world.

Eligibility: Who This Program Is For


The TICA Student Artist Mentorship Program is designed for young, aspiring artists in India who are at the beginning of their creative journey. If you are 21 or under, currently enrolled in a formal art program, or a passionate self-taught creator with less than five years of practice, this program is for you. We welcome students eager to learn, explore, and build confidence while developing a strong foundation in contemporary art. Through mentorship, peer engagement, and curated opportunities, this program supports early-stage artists in discovering their unique voice and preparing for a sustainable art career.

Program Benefits

Guidance, resources, and opportunities to help young artists refine their skills, gain exposure, and confidently step into the professional art world.

Financial & Administrative Support

Financial & Administrative Support

Enjoy one of the most student-friendly commission rates, no GST burden, and zero hidden fees, allowing you to focus fully on your creativity while gaining early sales experience.

Guidance & Learning Opportunities

Guidance & Learning Opportunities

Access mentorship from established artists and curators, learning workshops, feedback sessions, and curated guidance to build skills, confidence, and a strong foundation in professional art practice.

Visibility & Future Pathways

Visibility & Future Pathways

Showcase your work through dedicated student profiles, curated exhibitions, and early portfolio development. This visibility creates opportunities and paves a seamless path into the Emerging Artist program.

How it works?


The Student Artist Mentorship Program is designed to be encouraging, clear, and supportive. From your initial submission to full onboarding, mentorship, and first exhibition opportunities, TICA guides you at every step, helping you gain confidence, showcase your work, and explore your creative potential.

Step 1: Share a Glimpse of Your Work

Begin by filling out our easy onboarding form. Share basic information and a few images of your art. We are looking for potential, creativity, and your unique spark—not just finished pieces.

Step 2: A Gentle Review

Our curatorial team reviews every submission with care. We focus on originality, passion, and your commitment to growing as an artist. Every submission is considered thoughtfully.

Step 3: A Warm Welcome

If your work aligns with the program, we’ll invite you to join. A TICA team member will personally guide you through profile setup, selecting pieces for your portfolio, and first exhibition opportunities.

Step 4: Mentorship & Learning

Gain access to guidance from experienced artists and curators. Participate in peer-support circles, workshops, and learning sessions designed to strengthen your skills and confidence in a supportive environment.

Step 5: Showcasing & Growth

Once onboarded, your professional artist profile goes live on TICA’s platform. You will be featured in student exhibitions, curated showcases, and receive mentorship to help navigate your early career.

Step 6: Transition to Emerging Artist Program

As your practice develops and you reach the next stage, TICA provides a seamless pathway into the Emerging Artist Excellence Program, with benefits and support matching your growing career.


Commission & Fees

At TICA, we believe in empowering young Indian artists with financial freedom from day one. Student artists enjoy the lowest commission rates when selling their artwork, keeping more of what they earn. We also understand that many students aren’t GST-registered yet—don’t worry, we simplify the process so you can focus on creating.

Ready to see if you qualify? Submit your portfolio through our Artist Submission Form and take your first step into the professional art world.

Submit Application

Take a leap forward, have a doubt, get in touch!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to be enrolled in a formal art school to apply?


No. We welcome passionate self-taught artists as well. The program is open to anyone aged 21 or under who is at the early stages (practicing for less than four years) of their creative practice.

What if I don’t have a large portfolio of finished work yet?


That’s completely fine. We’re interested in your potential and your process. Share a few strong pieces, including works in progress if they reflect your creative direction.

Is there pressure to sell my work?


Absolutely not. While sales are a bonus, the focus is on learning, building your portfolio, and gaining confidence. Your growth comes first.

What happens when I turn 22 or finish my studies?


We celebrate your growth! You’ll be guided to transition into our Emerging Artist Excellence Program, which offers benefits suited to the next stage of your career.

What kind of mentorship can I expect?


You’ll receive guidance from experienced artists and curators on developing your portfolio, writing an artist statement, and navigating the art world.

Will I get feedback on my artwork?


Yes. Constructive feedback is an integral part of the program through mentorship sessions and peer-support circles.

What if I’ve never sold an artwork before?


Perfect! We guide you through the entire process—from pricing your work to understanding sales and shipping—so you gain confidence in your first professional transactions.

Are there any costs to participate?


No. There are no registration fees, listing fees, or hidden charges. TICA’s model is commission-based, only applied if and when your work sells.