OPEN CALL: AiR SVĚTOVA 1

OPEN CALL: AiR SVĚTOVA 1



OPEN CALL:

AiR SVĚTOVA 1

OPEN CALL:

AiR SVĚTOVA 1
 

OPEN CALL:

AiR SVĚTOVA 1 

  • Application deadline: 24.2.2026 at 23:59 
  • Open Call results announcement: 6.3.2026 
  • Dates of residency: 1.4.2026 – 3.5.2026
  • Location: SVĚTOVA 1, Prague 

For any quetions, please contact: madin@svetova1.cz

  • Application deadline: 24.2.2026 at 23:59 
  • Open Call results announcement: 6.3.2026 
  • Dates of residency: 1.4.2026 – 3.5.2026
  • Location: SVĚTOVA 1, Prague 

For any quetions, please contact: madin@svetova1.cz

  • Application deadline: 24.2.2026 at 23:59 
  • Open Call results announcement: 6.3.2026 
  • Dates of residency: 1.4.2026 – 3.5.2026
  • Location: SVĚTOVA 1, Prague 

For any quetions, please contact: madin@svetova1.cz

  • Application deadline: 24.2.2026 at 23:59 
  • Open Call results announcement: 6.3.2026 
  • Dates of residency: 1.4.2026 – 3.5.2026
  • Location: SVĚTOVA 1, Prague 

For any quetions, please contact: madin@svetova1.cz

  • Application deadline: 24.2.2026 at 23:59 
  • Open Call results announcement: 6.3.2026 
  • Dates of residency: 1.4.2026 – 3.5.2026
  • Location: SVĚTOVA 1, Prague 

For any quetions, please contact: madin@svetova1.cz

APPLY HERE

About the program:
AiR SVĚTOVA 1 2026 will provide a one-month creative and research residency program for one emerging visual artist at the beginning of their career, during which they can focus on developing a new artistic project. The residency is intended to enable intensive work in the inspiring environment of the SVĚTOVA 1 gallery, support emerging artists with new perspectives in contemporary art, and provide feedback from the members of the expert committee. The aim is for the outcomes of the residency (a public lecture, workshop, and exhibition) to enrich the gallery's program and engage the local community by opening the space for more connections and young new artists. For our debut residency, we’re inviting emerging Czech-based artists to showcase local talent, with guidance and support along the way.

Residency period: 

Application Deadline: 24.2.26.

Open Call Results Announcement: 6.3.26

Duration of the residency: 1.4.26 — 3.5.26 

Workshop: 25.4.2026

Artist-talk: 2.5.2026

Exhibition: 1.5 — 30.5.26

About the program:
AiR SVĚTOVA 1 2026 will provide a one-month creative and research residency program for one emerging visual artist at the beginning of their career, during which they can focus on developing a new artistic project. The residency is intended to enable intensive work in the inspiring environment of the SVĚTOVA 1 gallery, support emerging artists with new perspectives in contemporary art, and provide feedback from the members of the expert committee. The aim is for the outcomes of the residency (a public lecture, workshop, and exhibition) to enrich the gallery's program and engage the local community by opening the space for more connections and young new artists. For our debut residency, we’re inviting emerging Czech-based artists to showcase local talent, with guidance and support along the way.

Residency period: 

Application Deadline: 24.2.26.

Open Call Results Announcement: 6.3.26

Duration of the residency: 1.4.26 — 3.5.26 

Workshop: 25.4.2026

Artist-talk: 2.5.2026

Exhibition: 1.5 — 30.5.26

About the program:
AiR SVĚTOVA 1 2026 will provide a one-month creative and research residency program for one emerging visual artist at the beginning of their career, during which they can focus on developing a new artistic project. The residency is intended to enable intensive work in the inspiring environment of the SVĚTOVA 1 gallery, support emerging artists with new perspectives in contemporary art, and provide feedback from the members of the expert committee. The aim is for the outcomes of the residency (a public lecture, workshop, and exhibition) to enrich the gallery's program and engage the local community by opening the space for more connections and young new artists. For our debut residency, we’re inviting emerging Czech-based artists to showcase local talent, with guidance and support along the way.

Residency period: 

Application Deadline: 24.2.26.

Open Call Results Announcement: 6.3.26

Duration of the residency: 1.4.26 — 3.5.26 

Workshop: 25.4.2026

Artist-talk: 2.5.2026

Exhibition: 1.5 — 30.5.26

About the program:
AiR SVĚTOVA 1 2026 will provide a one-month creative and research residency program for one emerging visual artist at the beginning of their career, during which they can focus on developing a new artistic project. The residency is intended to enable intensive work in the inspiring environment of the SVĚTOVA 1 gallery, support emerging artists with new perspectives in contemporary art, and provide feedback from the members of the expert committee. The aim is for the outcomes of the residency (a public lecture, workshop, and exhibition) to enrich the gallery's program and engage the local community by opening the space for more connections and young new artists. For our debut residency, we’re inviting emerging Czech-based artists to showcase local talent, with guidance and support along the way.

Residency period: 

Application Deadline: 24.2.26.

Open Call Results Announcement: 6.3.26

Duration of the residency: 1.4.26 — 3.5.26 

Workshop: 25.4.2026

Artist-talk: 2.5.2026

Exhibition: 1.5 — 30.5.26

About the program:
AiR SVĚTOVA 1 2026 will provide a one-month creative and research residency program for one emerging visual artist at the beginning of their career, during which they can focus on developing a new artistic project. The residency is intended to enable intensive work in the inspiring environment of the SVĚTOVA 1 gallery, support emerging artists with new perspectives in contemporary art, and provide feedback from the members of the expert committee. The aim is for the outcomes of the residency (a public lecture, workshop, and exhibition) to enrich the gallery's program and engage the local community by opening the space for more connections and young new artists. For our debut residency, we’re inviting emerging Czech-based artists to showcase local talent, with guidance and support along the way.

Residency period: 

Application Deadline: 24.2.26.

Open Call Results Announcement: 6.3.26

Duration of the residency: 1.4.26 — 3.5.26 

Workshop: 25.4.2026

Artist-talk: 2.5.2026

Exhibition: 1.5 — 30.5.26

Residency includes:

  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Shared studio space during the residency includes a separate bedroom with provided bed and a closet and a shower. The kitchenette provides a microwave, kettle and an electrical portable stove.
  • Curatorial support during the residency by the S1 program team.
  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Financial support in the form of an Artist fee (30.000Kč) and a Production budget (10.000Kč).
  • S1 will cover one round trip from the artist's place of residence to Prague, Czechia and back. 
  • Opportunity to share the practice of the resident to the public (workshop, artist-talk, exhibition)
  • Group crit at the end of the residency with the expert committee

Please note: the studio space is located inside of the gallery space and office where our team works from from 12-18pm Tue-Sat . There is no laundry machine in the gallery, but there is a laundromat within a 5 minute walk away.

What you need to apply: 

  • CV + portfolio
    May include realized artworks and/or non-realized projects. Please submit a portfolio in a single PDF either in English / Czech / Slovak language (max. 15 pages, under 10 MB in total) including 5–10 selected works or projects. 
  • Cover letter/ introduction video
    2 standard pages (1800 - 3600 characters) description of the project you want to focus on. We’re also looking for the reflection of your motivation and statements and a reflection on how this residency could benefit your journey. 5-10 images for planned projects are welcomed, but not mandatory. 
  • If you choose to submit an introduction video, please keep it under 5 minutes. Please provide links to your video works (Vimeo, YouTube, or similar platforms). Make sure the links are accessible without download requests or passwords (or include the password if needed).

How to apply

  • Fill in a Google form
  • Upload the files to the form
  • Make sure your files are accessible, PDFs are preferred

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • To be proficient in either English / Czech / Slovak language
  • The Open Call is offered to an emerging artist
  • Currently not enrolled in any educational program
  • Be available for the entire duration of the residency (1.4.26 — 3.5.26) 
  • Alignment with community values and rules of S1

!   By applying for the residency, the interested party agrees with further presentation of work and/or results of the residency through a workshop, artistic lecture, and exhibition.

Resident selection (before the start of the program):
The resident will be selected by an expert committee based on application review,  an online interview in the case of necessity, and alignment with the vision of SVĚTOVA 1. Before the start of the residency, an introductory meeting (in person or online) will be held to clarify the objectives, introduce the artist to the gallery team, and discuss logistics (accommodation, studio).

Residency includes:

  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Shared studio space during the residency includes a separate bedroom with provided bed and a closet and a shower. The kitchenette provides a microwave, kettle and an electrical portable stove.
  • Curatorial support during the residency by the S1 program team.
  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Financial support in the form of an Artist fee (30.000Kč) and a Production budget (10.000Kč).
  • S1 will cover one round trip from the artist's place of residence to Prague, Czechia and back. 
  • Opportunity to share the practice of the resident to the public (workshop, artist-talk, exhibition)
  • Group crit at the end of the residency with the expert committee

Please note: the studio space is located inside of the gallery space and office where our team works from from 12-18pm Tue-Sat . There is no laundry machine in the gallery, but there is a laundromat within a 5 minute walk away.

What you need to apply: 

  • CV + portfolio
    May include realized artworks and/or non-realized projects. Please submit a portfolio in a single PDF either in English / Czech / Slovak language (max. 15 pages, under 10 MB in total) including 5–10 selected works or projects. 
  • Cover letter/ introduction video
    2 standard pages (1800 - 3600 characters) description of the project you want to focus on. We’re also looking for the reflection of your motivation and statements and a reflection on how this residency could benefit your journey. 5-10 images for planned projects are welcomed, but not mandatory. 
  • If you choose to submit an introduction video, please keep it under 5 minutes. Please provide links to your video works (Vimeo, YouTube, or similar platforms). Make sure the links are accessible without download requests or passwords (or include the password if needed).

How to apply

  • Fill in a Google form
  • Upload the files to the form
  • Make sure your files are accessible, PDFs are preferred

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • To be proficient in either English / Czech / Slovak language
  • The Open Call is offered to an emerging artist
  • Currently not enrolled in any educational program
  • Be available for the entire duration of the residency (1.4.26 — 3.5.26) 
  • Alignment with community values and rules of S1

!   By applying for the residency, the interested party agrees with further presentation of work and/or results of the residency through a workshop, artistic lecture, and exhibition.

Resident selection (before the start of the program):
The resident will be selected by an expert committee based on application review,  an online interview in the case of necessity, and alignment with the vision of SVĚTOVA 1. Before the start of the residency, an introductory meeting (in person or online) will be held to clarify the objectives, introduce the artist to the gallery team, and discuss logistics (accommodation, studio).

Residency includes:

  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Shared studio space during the residency includes a separate bedroom with provided bed and a closet and a shower. The kitchenette provides a microwave, kettle and an electrical portable stove.
  • Curatorial support during the residency by the S1 program team.
  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Financial support in the form of an Artist fee (30.000Kč) and a Production budget (10.000Kč).
  • S1 will cover one round trip from the artist's place of residence to Prague, Czechia and back. 
  • Opportunity to share the practice of the resident to the public (workshop, artist-talk, exhibition)
  • Group crit at the end of the residency with the expert committee

Please note: the studio space is located inside of the gallery space and office where our team works from from 12-18pm Tue-Sat . There is no laundry machine in the gallery, but there is a laundromat within a 5 minute walk away.

What you need to apply: 

  • CV + portfolio
    May include realized artworks and/or non-realized projects. Please submit a portfolio in a single PDF either in English / Czech / Slovak language (max. 15 pages, under 10 MB in total) including 5–10 selected works or projects. 
  • Cover letter/ introduction video
    2 standard pages (1800 - 3600 characters) description of the project you want to focus on. We’re also looking for the reflection of your motivation and statements and a reflection on how this residency could benefit your journey. 5-10 images for planned projects are welcomed, but not mandatory. 
  • If you choose to submit an introduction video, please keep it under 5 minutes. Please provide links to your video works (Vimeo, YouTube, or similar platforms). Make sure the links are accessible without download requests or passwords (or include the password if needed).

How to apply

  • Fill in a Google form
  • Upload the files to the form
  • Make sure your files are accessible, PDFs are preferred

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • To be proficient in either English / Czech / Slovak language
  • The Open Call is offered to an emerging artist
  • Currently not enrolled in any educational program
  • Be available for the entire duration of the residency (1.4.26 — 3.5.26) 
  • Alignment with community values and rules of S1

!   By applying for the residency, the interested party agrees with further presentation of work and/or results of the residency through a workshop, artistic lecture, and exhibition.

Resident selection (before the start of the program):
The resident will be selected by an expert committee based on application review,  an online interview in the case of necessity, and alignment with the vision of SVĚTOVA 1. Before the start of the residency, an introductory meeting (in person or online) will be held to clarify the objectives, introduce the artist to the gallery team, and discuss logistics (accommodation, studio).

Residency includes:

  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Shared studio space during the residency includes a separate bedroom with provided bed and a closet and a shower. The kitchenette provides a microwave, kettle and an electrical portable stove.
  • Curatorial support during the residency by the S1 program team.
  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Financial support in the form of an Artist fee (30.000Kč) and a Production budget (10.000Kč).
  • S1 will cover one round trip from the artist's place of residence to Prague, Czechia and back. 
  • Opportunity to share the practice of the resident to the public (workshop, artist-talk, exhibition)
  • Group crit at the end of the residency with the expert committee

Please note: the studio space is located inside of the gallery space and office where our team works from from 12-18pm Tue-Sat . There is no laundry machine in the gallery, but there is a laundromat within a 5 minute walk away.

What you need to apply: 

  • CV + portfolio
    May include realized artworks and/or non-realized projects. Please submit a portfolio in a single PDF either in English / Czech / Slovak language (max. 15 pages, under 10 MB in total) including 5–10 selected works or projects. 
  • Cover letter/ introduction video
    2 standard pages (1800 - 3600 characters) description of the project you want to focus on. We’re also looking for the reflection of your motivation and statements and a reflection on how this residency could benefit your journey. 5-10 images for planned projects are welcomed, but not mandatory. 
  • If you choose to submit an introduction video, please keep it under 5 minutes. Please provide links to your video works (Vimeo, YouTube, or similar platforms). Make sure the links are accessible without download requests or passwords (or include the password if needed).

How to apply

  • Fill in a Google form
  • Upload the files to the form
  • Make sure your files are accessible, PDFs are preferred

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • To be proficient in either English / Czech / Slovak language
  • The Open Call is offered to an emerging artist
  • Currently not enrolled in any educational program
  • Be available for the entire duration of the residency (1.4.26 — 3.5.26) 
  • Alignment with community values and rules of S1

!   By applying for the residency, the interested party agrees with further presentation of work and/or results of the residency through a workshop, artistic lecture, and exhibition.

Resident selection (before the start of the program):
The resident will be selected by an expert committee based on application review,  an online interview in the case of necessity, and alignment with the vision of SVĚTOVA 1. Before the start of the residency, an introductory meeting (in person or online) will be held to clarify the objectives, introduce the artist to the gallery team, and discuss logistics (accommodation, studio).

Residency includes:

  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Shared studio space during the residency includes a separate bedroom with provided bed and a closet and a shower. The kitchenette provides a microwave, kettle and an electrical portable stove.
  • Curatorial support during the residency by the S1 program team.
  • Accommodation is in our new residential space in SVĚTOVA 1.
  • Financial support in the form of an Artist fee (30.000Kč) and a Production budget (10.000Kč).
  • S1 will cover one round trip from the artist's place of residence to Prague, Czechia and back. 
  • Opportunity to share the practice of the resident to the public (workshop, artist-talk, exhibition)
  • Group crit at the end of the residency with the expert committee

Please note: the studio space is located inside of the gallery space and office where our team works from from 12-18pm Tue-Sat . There is no laundry machine in the gallery, but there is a laundromat within a 5 minute walk away.

What you need to apply: 

  • CV + portfolio
    May include realized artworks and/or non-realized projects. Please submit a portfolio in a single PDF either in English / Czech / Slovak language (max. 15 pages, under 10 MB in total) including 5–10 selected works or projects. 
  • Cover letter/ introduction video
    2 standard pages (1800 - 3600 characters) description of the project you want to focus on. We’re also looking for the reflection of your motivation and statements and a reflection on how this residency could benefit your journey. 5-10 images for planned projects are welcomed, but not mandatory. 
  • If you choose to submit an introduction video, please keep it under 5 minutes. Please provide links to your video works (Vimeo, YouTube, or similar platforms). Make sure the links are accessible without download requests or passwords (or include the password if needed).

How to apply

  • Fill in a Google form
  • Upload the files to the form
  • Make sure your files are accessible, PDFs are preferred

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • To be proficient in either English / Czech / Slovak language
  • The Open Call is offered to an emerging artist
  • Currently not enrolled in any educational program
  • Be available for the entire duration of the residency (1.4.26 — 3.5.26) 
  • Alignment with community values and rules of S1

!   By applying for the residency, the interested party agrees with further presentation of work and/or results of the residency through a workshop, artistic lecture, and exhibition.

Resident selection (before the start of the program):
The resident will be selected by an expert committee based on application review,  an online interview in the case of necessity, and alignment with the vision of SVĚTOVA 1. Before the start of the residency, an introductory meeting (in person or online) will be held to clarify the objectives, introduce the artist to the gallery team, and discuss logistics (accommodation, studio).

APPLY HERE
_S1_OPEN_CALL_AIR_Ě02

Theme: (How) can imagination through art help solve current crises?
The current social order is characterized by a concurrency of many local and global crises – ecological, humanitarian, political, economic, or mental health crisis. At the same time, we are witnessing the rise of the far-right and the associated forms of racism, ableism, and queerphobia. A return to the supposedly "normal state" is not possible – not only because there has never been a universal norm, but also because many of today's crises are a direct consequence of this "old" world order. This can lead us to strive to live, think, and create differently. The main question of the open call in this regard is: (How) can imagination through art help solve the current crises? We welcome different approaches, media, and theses within the open call. We do not have a clear answer to this question, which is why we are interested in your perspective.

There are too many potential solutions, responding to different trends in society and often contradictory. Examples of questions that participating artist can address include: What kinds of imagination can help in the context of art? Could it be dystopian thinking, because dystopias highlight various shortcomings of contemporary society, leading us to strive to eradicate these shortcomings? Or are they unproductive because they are too demotivating? Are they utopias because they have the power to motivate people to create a better social order for a better future? Or are utopias mere escapism? And is it even possible to imagine a universal utopia for everyone? Can examining different "non-Western" societies and striving to transform our society through decolonization help us? Can examining different non-human organisms and drawing inspiration from, for example, the non-hierarchical structure of trees help us? What can ants teach us? Pigeons? Mushrooms? Geology? The universe? Is the cure for the current crises criticism of capitalism? Or of patriarchy? Or of the commodification of animals? Or of the "traditional" concept of "health"? Will communities save us? Safe spaces, safer spaces, or brave spaces? Or is the weapon against crises hidden in queer joy? Or in the transformative power of sadness? Or in the creativity of destruction? Or in humor and continuing the wave of post-irony inspired by the alt-right movement? Will acceleration save us? Or, on the contrary, non-growth? Can the master's tools dismantle the master's house, or should we (following for example glitch feminism) try to find cracks in the current system and exploit them in a subversive way? Is it better to proceed through criticism of the current system or through imagination of a new system? Is the answer hidden in only one of these imaginations, or are they rather interconnected? Should one always stand against the evil that one is currently capable of fighting, or is it possible to universally solve all crises at once? Can art even claim to transform society or provide some hope? Is hope a productive tool at all? Or, in this context, should the goal of art in times of crisis be to comfort, because collapse is already inevitable?

We are looking for art that engages in any way with the theme of imagination in the context of solving current crises – whether negatively, positively, objectively, subjectively, naively, critically, or otherwise. Art that responds to any of the above or similar questions. What is important to us is a reflection on the author's own position, what crisis the art is responding to, and what approach it takes.

Residency’s structure

Week 1 of the residency focuses on introduction and planning. The artist settles into the studio, familiarising themselves with the gallery and local scene. An introductory meeting with curators discusses the project and work schedule. They develop the exhibition concept and plan the creative process. SVĚTOVA 1 may arrange meetings with community members, other artists, and experts to build connections.

Week 2 is dedicated to intensive creative work. The resident works on their art project, developing paintings, objects, installations, or other forms depending on their style. Ongoing consultations with curators ensure the project stays on track.  Mid-week, an informal “open studio” allows gallery staff and colleagues to visit and provide feedback.  Preparations for the workshop begin, with the resident developing the programme and gathering materials.

Week 3 sees continued creation and the planning of a public workshop. This workshop offers the public a chance to understand the creative process and actively participate.  The resident collaborates with the gallery to plan the exhibition installation, selecting works and arranging them in a 30m² space.

In Week 4 of the residency, the final implementation and presentation take place.  At the week’s start, the resident completes all their work and, with the gallery’s technical support, installs the exhibition in the gallery space. A public lecture follows, where the resident presents their project, discusses their inspirations and residency experiences. The week concludes with the exhibition’s opening, showcasing the resident’s final works. Open to the public for a month during gallery hours, the exhibition marks the residency’s culmination.  The resident, gallery team, and the expert committee then reflect on the program’s course and impact.

 

Theme: (How) can imagination through art help solve current crises?
The current social order is characterized by a concurrency of many local and global crises – ecological, humanitarian, political, economic, or mental health crisis. At the same time, we are witnessing the rise of the far-right and the associated forms of racism, ableism, and queerphobia. A return to the supposedly "normal state" is not possible – not only because there has never been a universal norm, but also because many of today's crises are a direct consequence of this "old" world order. This can lead us to strive to live, think, and create differently. The main question of the open call in this regard is: (How) can imagination through art help solve the current crises? We welcome different approaches, media, and theses within the open call. We do not have a clear answer to this question, which is why we are interested in your perspective.

There are too many potential solutions, responding to different trends in society and often contradictory. Examples of questions that participating artist can address include: What kinds of imagination can help in the context of art? Could it be dystopian thinking, because dystopias highlight various shortcomings of contemporary society, leading us to strive to eradicate these shortcomings? Or are they unproductive because they are too demotivating? Are they utopias because they have the power to motivate people to create a better social order for a better future? Or are utopias mere escapism? And is it even possible to imagine a universal utopia for everyone? Can examining different "non-Western" societies and striving to transform our society through decolonization help us? Can examining different non-human organisms and drawing inspiration from, for example, the non-hierarchical structure of trees help us? What can ants teach us? Pigeons? Mushrooms? Geology? The universe? Is the cure for the current crises criticism of capitalism? Or of patriarchy? Or of the commodification of animals? Or of the "traditional" concept of "health"? Will communities save us? Safe spaces, safer spaces, or brave spaces? Or is the weapon against crises hidden in queer joy? Or in the transformative power of sadness? Or in the creativity of destruction? Or in humor and continuing the wave of post-irony inspired by the alt-right movement? Will acceleration save us? Or, on the contrary, non-growth? Can the master's tools dismantle the master's house, or should we (following for example glitch feminism) try to find cracks in the current system and exploit them in a subversive way? Is it better to proceed through criticism of the current system or through imagination of a new system? Is the answer hidden in only one of these imaginations, or are they rather interconnected? Should one always stand against the evil that one is currently capable of fighting, or is it possible to universally solve all crises at once? Can art even claim to transform society or provide some hope? Is hope a productive tool at all? Or, in this context, should the goal of art in times of crisis be to comfort, because collapse is already inevitable?

We are looking for art that engages in any way with the theme of imagination in the context of solving current crises – whether negatively, positively, objectively, subjectively, naively, critically, or otherwise. Art that responds to any of the above or similar questions. What is important to us is a reflection on the author's own position, what crisis the art is responding to, and what approach it takes.

Residency’s structure

Week 1 of the residency focuses on introduction and planning. The artist settles into the studio, familiarising themselves with the gallery and local scene. An introductory meeting with curators discusses the project and work schedule. They develop the exhibition concept and plan the creative process. SVĚTOVA 1 may arrange meetings with community members, other artists, and experts to build connections.

Week 2 is dedicated to intensive creative work. The resident works on their art project, developing paintings, objects, installations, or other forms depending on their style. Ongoing consultations with curators ensure the project stays on track.  Mid-week, an informal “open studio” allows gallery staff and colleagues to visit and provide feedback.  Preparations for the workshop begin, with the resident developing the programme and gathering materials.

Week 3 sees continued creation and the planning of a public workshop. This workshop offers the public a chance to understand the creative process and actively participate.  The resident collaborates with the gallery to plan the exhibition installation, selecting works and arranging them in a 30m² space.

In Week 4 of the residency, the final implementation and presentation take place.  At the week’s start, the resident completes all their work and, with the gallery’s technical support, installs the exhibition in the gallery space. A public lecture follows, where the resident presents their project, discusses their inspirations and residency experiences. The week concludes with the exhibition’s opening, showcasing the resident’s final works. Open to the public for a month during gallery hours, the exhibition marks the residency’s culmination.  The resident, gallery team, and the expert committee then reflect on the program’s course and impact.

 

Theme: (How) can imagination through art help solve current crises?
The current social order is characterized by a concurrency of many local and global crises – ecological, humanitarian, political, economic, or mental health crisis. At the same time, we are witnessing the rise of the far-right and the associated forms of racism, ableism, and queerphobia. A return to the supposedly "normal state" is not possible – not only because there has never been a universal norm, but also because many of today's crises are a direct consequence of this "old" world order. This can lead us to strive to live, think, and create differently. The main question of the open call in this regard is: (How) can imagination through art help solve the current crises? We welcome different approaches, media, and theses within the open call. We do not have a clear answer to this question, which is why we are interested in your perspective.

There are too many potential solutions, responding to different trends in society and often contradictory. Examples of questions that participating artist can address include: What kinds of imagination can help in the context of art? Could it be dystopian thinking, because dystopias highlight various shortcomings of contemporary society, leading us to strive to eradicate these shortcomings? Or are they unproductive because they are too demotivating? Are they utopias because they have the power to motivate people to create a better social order for a better future? Or are utopias mere escapism? And is it even possible to imagine a universal utopia for everyone? Can examining different "non-Western" societies and striving to transform our society through decolonization help us? Can examining different non-human organisms and drawing inspiration from, for example, the non-hierarchical structure of trees help us? What can ants teach us? Pigeons? Mushrooms? Geology? The universe? Is the cure for the current crises criticism of capitalism? Or of patriarchy? Or of the commodification of animals? Or of the "traditional" concept of "health"? Will communities save us? Safe spaces, safer spaces, or brave spaces? Or is the weapon against crises hidden in queer joy? Or in the transformative power of sadness? Or in the creativity of destruction? Or in humor and continuing the wave of post-irony inspired by the alt-right movement? Will acceleration save us? Or, on the contrary, non-growth? Can the master's tools dismantle the master's house, or should we (following for example glitch feminism) try to find cracks in the current system and exploit them in a subversive way? Is it better to proceed through criticism of the current system or through imagination of a new system? Is the answer hidden in only one of these imaginations, or are they rather interconnected? Should one always stand against the evil that one is currently capable of fighting, or is it possible to universally solve all crises at once? Can art even claim to transform society or provide some hope? Is hope a productive tool at all? Or, in this context, should the goal of art in times of crisis be to comfort, because collapse is already inevitable?

We are looking for art that engages in any way with the theme of imagination in the context of solving current crises – whether negatively, positively, objectively, subjectively, naively, critically, or otherwise. Art that responds to any of the above or similar questions. What is important to us is a reflection on the author's own position, what crisis the art is responding to, and what approach it takes.

Residency’s structure

Week 1 of the residency focuses on introduction and planning. The artist settles into the studio, familiarising themselves with the gallery and local scene. An introductory meeting with curators discusses the project and work schedule. They develop the exhibition concept and plan the creative process. SVĚTOVA 1 may arrange meetings with community members, other artists, and experts to build connections.

Week 2 is dedicated to intensive creative work. The resident works on their art project, developing paintings, objects, installations, or other forms depending on their style. Ongoing consultations with curators ensure the project stays on track.  Mid-week, an informal “open studio” allows gallery staff and colleagues to visit and provide feedback.  Preparations for the workshop begin, with the resident developing the programme and gathering materials.

Week 3 sees continued creation and the planning of a public workshop. This workshop offers the public a chance to understand the creative process and actively participate.  The resident collaborates with the gallery to plan the exhibition installation, selecting works and arranging them in a 30m² space.

In Week 4 of the residency, the final implementation and presentation take place.  At the week’s start, the resident completes all their work and, with the gallery’s technical support, installs the exhibition in the gallery space. A public lecture follows, where the resident presents their project, discusses their inspirations and residency experiences. The week concludes with the exhibition’s opening, showcasing the resident’s final works. Open to the public for a month during gallery hours, the exhibition marks the residency’s culmination.  The resident, gallery team, and the expert committee then reflect on the program’s course and impact.

 

Theme: (How) can imagination through art help solve current crises?
The current social order is characterized by a concurrency of many local and global crises – ecological, humanitarian, political, economic, or mental health crisis. At the same time, we are witnessing the rise of the far-right and the associated forms of racism, ableism, and queerphobia. A return to the supposedly "normal state" is not possible – not only because there has never been a universal norm, but also because many of today's crises are a direct consequence of this "old" world order. This can lead us to strive to live, think, and create differently. The main question of the open call in this regard is: (How) can imagination through art help solve the current crises? We welcome different approaches, media, and theses within the open call. We do not have a clear answer to this question, which is why we are interested in your perspective.

There are too many potential solutions, responding to different trends in society and often contradictory. Examples of questions that participating artist can address include: What kinds of imagination can help in the context of art? Could it be dystopian thinking, because dystopias highlight various shortcomings of contemporary society, leading us to strive to eradicate these shortcomings? Or are they unproductive because they are too demotivating? Are they utopias because they have the power to motivate people to create a better social order for a better future? Or are utopias mere escapism? And is it even possible to imagine a universal utopia for everyone? Can examining different "non-Western" societies and striving to transform our society through decolonization help us? Can examining different non-human organisms and drawing inspiration from, for example, the non-hierarchical structure of trees help us? What can ants teach us? Pigeons? Mushrooms? Geology? The universe? Is the cure for the current crises criticism of capitalism? Or of patriarchy? Or of the commodification of animals? Or of the "traditional" concept of "health"? Will communities save us? Safe spaces, safer spaces, or brave spaces? Or is the weapon against crises hidden in queer joy? Or in the transformative power of sadness? Or in the creativity of destruction? Or in humor and continuing the wave of post-irony inspired by the alt-right movement? Will acceleration save us? Or, on the contrary, non-growth? Can the master's tools dismantle the master's house, or should we (following for example glitch feminism) try to find cracks in the current system and exploit them in a subversive way? Is it better to proceed through criticism of the current system or through imagination of a new system? Is the answer hidden in only one of these imaginations, or are they rather interconnected? Should one always stand against the evil that one is currently capable of fighting, or is it possible to universally solve all crises at once? Can art even claim to transform society or provide some hope? Is hope a productive tool at all? Or, in this context, should the goal of art in times of crisis be to comfort, because collapse is already inevitable?

We are looking for art that engages in any way with the theme of imagination in the context of solving current crises – whether negatively, positively, objectively, subjectively, naively, critically, or otherwise. Art that responds to any of the above or similar questions. What is important to us is a reflection on the author's own position, what crisis the art is responding to, and what approach it takes.

Residency’s structure

Week 1 of the residency focuses on introduction and planning. The artist settles into the studio, familiarising themselves with the gallery and local scene. An introductory meeting with curators discusses the project and work schedule. They develop the exhibition concept and plan the creative process. SVĚTOVA 1 may arrange meetings with community members, other artists, and experts to build connections.

Week 2 is dedicated to intensive creative work. The resident works on their art project, developing paintings, objects, installations, or other forms depending on their style. Ongoing consultations with curators ensure the project stays on track.  Mid-week, an informal “open studio” allows gallery staff and colleagues to visit and provide feedback.  Preparations for the workshop begin, with the resident developing the programme and gathering materials.

Week 3 sees continued creation and the planning of a public workshop. This workshop offers the public a chance to understand the creative process and actively participate.  The resident collaborates with the gallery to plan the exhibition installation, selecting works and arranging them in a 30m² space.

In Week 4 of the residency, the final implementation and presentation take place.  At the week’s start, the resident completes all their work and, with the gallery’s technical support, installs the exhibition in the gallery space. A public lecture follows, where the resident presents their project, discusses their inspirations and residency experiences. The week concludes with the exhibition’s opening, showcasing the resident’s final works. Open to the public for a month during gallery hours, the exhibition marks the residency’s culmination.  The resident, gallery team, and the expert committee then reflect on the program’s course and impact.

 

Theme: (How) can imagination through art help solve current crises?
The current social order is characterized by a concurrency of many local and global crises – ecological, humanitarian, political, economic, or mental health crisis. At the same time, we are witnessing the rise of the far-right and the associated forms of racism, ableism, and queerphobia. A return to the supposedly "normal state" is not possible – not only because there has never been a universal norm, but also because many of today's crises are a direct consequence of this "old" world order. This can lead us to strive to live, think, and create differently. The main question of the open call in this regard is: (How) can imagination through art help solve the current crises? We welcome different approaches, media, and theses within the open call. We do not have a clear answer to this question, which is why we are interested in your perspective.

There are too many potential solutions, responding to different trends in society and often contradictory. Examples of questions that participating artist can address include: What kinds of imagination can help in the context of art? Could it be dystopian thinking, because dystopias highlight various shortcomings of contemporary society, leading us to strive to eradicate these shortcomings? Or are they unproductive because they are too demotivating? Are they utopias because they have the power to motivate people to create a better social order for a better future? Or are utopias mere escapism? And is it even possible to imagine a universal utopia for everyone? Can examining different "non-Western" societies and striving to transform our society through decolonization help us? Can examining different non-human organisms and drawing inspiration from, for example, the non-hierarchical structure of trees help us? What can ants teach us? Pigeons? Mushrooms? Geology? The universe? Is the cure for the current crises criticism of capitalism? Or of patriarchy? Or of the commodification of animals? Or of the "traditional" concept of "health"? Will communities save us? Safe spaces, safer spaces, or brave spaces? Or is the weapon against crises hidden in queer joy? Or in the transformative power of sadness? Or in the creativity of destruction? Or in humor and continuing the wave of post-irony inspired by the alt-right movement? Will acceleration save us? Or, on the contrary, non-growth? Can the master's tools dismantle the master's house, or should we (following for example glitch feminism) try to find cracks in the current system and exploit them in a subversive way? Is it better to proceed through criticism of the current system or through imagination of a new system? Is the answer hidden in only one of these imaginations, or are they rather interconnected? Should one always stand against the evil that one is currently capable of fighting, or is it possible to universally solve all crises at once? Can art even claim to transform society or provide some hope? Is hope a productive tool at all? Or, in this context, should the goal of art in times of crisis be to comfort, because collapse is already inevitable?

We are looking for art that engages in any way with the theme of imagination in the context of solving current crises – whether negatively, positively, objectively, subjectively, naively, critically, or otherwise. Art that responds to any of the above or similar questions. What is important to us is a reflection on the author's own position, what crisis the art is responding to, and what approach it takes.

Residency’s structure

Week 1 of the residency focuses on introduction and planning. The artist settles into the studio, familiarising themselves with the gallery and local scene. An introductory meeting with curators discusses the project and work schedule. They develop the exhibition concept and plan the creative process. SVĚTOVA 1 may arrange meetings with community members, other artists, and experts to build connections.

Week 2 is dedicated to intensive creative work. The resident works on their art project, developing paintings, objects, installations, or other forms depending on their style. Ongoing consultations with curators ensure the project stays on track.  Mid-week, an informal “open studio” allows gallery staff and colleagues to visit and provide feedback.  Preparations for the workshop begin, with the resident developing the programme and gathering materials.

Week 3 sees continued creation and the planning of a public workshop. This workshop offers the public a chance to understand the creative process and actively participate.  The resident collaborates with the gallery to plan the exhibition installation, selecting works and arranging them in a 30m² space.

In Week 4 of the residency, the final implementation and presentation take place.  At the week’s start, the resident completes all their work and, with the gallery’s technical support, installs the exhibition in the gallery space. A public lecture follows, where the resident presents their project, discusses their inspirations and residency experiences. The week concludes with the exhibition’s opening, showcasing the resident’s final works. Open to the public for a month during gallery hours, the exhibition marks the residency’s culmination.  The resident, gallery team, and the expert committee then reflect on the program’s course and impact.

 

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