[artinfo] First AiR program in Abkhazia - call for 2017

[by way of János Sugár]

SKLAD's AIR program gives artists and researchers a unique 
opportunity to work in a region with a rich and diverse history. 
Organised by SKLAD cultural center, the program aims to provide a 
framework for cultural and artistic creation and dialogue. In the 
process, it hopes to contribute to debates about social issues as 
well as to the development of the artistic scene in Abkhazia, raise 
awareness about the region and foster international exchange.

The residency program is designed around a yearlong theme that 
residents are invited to explore. Submissions do not have to relate 
unquestionably to the theme, but proposals that react to it will be 
prioritised. For its first edition, the general theme is the ARCHIVE. 
Taking place in a region where cultural institutions were largely 
destroyed and many memories erased or forgotten, the residency 
program hopes to symbolically fill this void by working with and 
bringing to life memories and new works.While all types of media and 
art forms are welcome, projects with a collaborative and research 
component will be favoured.

Every year, up to 6 artist/researchers working with non-academic 
formats will be selected for stays of minimum 2 weeks used for 
research and production. At the end of each stay, the artist 
/researcher is expected to present her or his work in the form of an 
exhibition, a presentation or a workshop. Residencies take place 
between February and May and between September and November. Each 
resident will be provided with:

- Assistance for the work prior and during the stay, including 
organising visits and trips

- Accommodation

- Transport to/from the border

- Assistants/translators (if needed)

- A 150 sqm. workshop/exhibition space

- Publicising the artist's event (workshop/exhibition/presentation)

- Help with the visa process and regarding procedures concerning Abkhazia

- A small budget for the purchase of material will be discussed individually.

Relying on grants and run by volunteers as the first organisation of 
its kind in Abhazia, SKLAD is currently unable to cover any 
additional costs such as travelling and living cost. A total 
contribution of 200 euros is asked of each artist upon arrival in 
order to cover accommodation costs. SKLAD's goal is nevertheless to 
collaborate with talented and curious practitioners; in case this 
cost presents difficulties, the issue can be discussed on a case by 
case basis. SKLAD can provide invitation letters for artists looking 
for additional funding.

Prior to submitting their proposal to SKLAD-AIR, artists are 
encouraged to address the organisers to learn more about the 
situation in Abkhazia and assess the feasibility of their projects. 
Applicants should also inform themselves of the possible risks 
involved in coming to Abkhazia.

The first organization of its kind in Abkhazia, Sklad encourages the 
exploration of cultural, social and historical issues, but it refuses 
to serve any political purpose.

APPLICATIONS FOR THE SPRING PERIOD SHOULD BE SENT BY DECEMBER 4 2016

Applications should be sent as a single pdf to mail at sklad.space

More info : www.skladresidency.space