Helsinki International Curatorial Programme

Home/Opportunity/Helsinki International Curatorial Programme

The Helsinki International Curatorial Programme (HICP), co-organized by Frame and HIAP, offers one-month residencies for contemporary art curators to connect with the Finnish art scene, develop projects, and engage in research. The residency takes place on the island of Suomenlinna, a short ferry ride from Helsinki city center.

Information & Application Details:

  • Deadline: 16 March 2025 (11:59 pm, GMT +3)

  • Residency Dates:

    • 19 August – 19 September 2025
    • 23 September – 24 October 2025

  • Residency Locations:

    1. Suomenlinna Island (Main Location)

      • Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, 15 minutes by ferry from central Helsinki.
      • Facilities: Community Room, Project Space, Equipment Room, Wood Workshop (24/7 access).
      • Living Spaces:
        • Atelier Apartments: ~80 sqm, two levels (work area downstairs, living space upstairs), kitchenette, bathroom, accommodates 2–4 people.
        • Residency Apartments: ~30 sqm, kitchenette, bathroom, accommodates up to 2 people (not suitable for large-scale projects).
      • Community & Events: Optional weekly gatherings, opportunity to join Open Studios to showcase work-in-progress.
      • Accessibility: Limited, with details available upon request.
      • Note: No pets allowed.

    2. Cable Factory (Kaapelitehdas)

      • Description: Helsinki’s largest cultural complex with studios, museums, art schools, and cultural organizations.
      • Facilities: Live/work studios (~63 sqm), kitchenette, bathroom, sleeping loft.
      • Capacity: Suitable for 2 adults or a small family.
      • Note: No pets allowed.

 

Eligibility:

  • Curators with 2–3 years of professional experience (formal education not required)
  • Open to international applicants, with encouragement for individuals from the global majority, LGBTQIA+ communities, disabled persons, and those from working-class or low socio-economic backgrounds

 

Inclusion & Accessibility:

  • Accessibility information for HIAP residency apartments is available
  • Applicants can include access requirements or upload an Access Rider (confidential, not part of jury process)
  • No additional access budget, but applicants can contact HIAP for support

 

Theme:

  • Foster connections with the Finnish contemporary art field
  • Support diverse and emerging forms of curatorial research
  • Encourage projects like exhibitions, public events, and publications

 

How to Apply:

  • Submit applications through the online application form (emails not accepted)
  • Required materials: short biography, curatorial statement (with visuals if possible), and a motivation letter

 

Selection Process:

  • Selection by a jury of local artists and art professionals (Frame and HIAP representatives included)
  • Selection criteria: motivation, relevance, topicality, diversity, and quality of curatorial practice
  • Selected residents notified by the end of March 2025 (no individual feedback due to volume of applications)

 

Program Benefits:

  • Combined workspace and accommodation on Suomenlinna Island
  • €1200 working grant
  • Travel allowance (from/to the curator’s place of residence)
  • Individual assistance and tailored networking support
  • Access to extensive networks of Finnish artists and art professionals

 

Contact & Resources:

Emma Beverley, Director, HIAP Email: office@hiap.fi | Tel: +358 45 695 9357

Website Link:

https://www.hiap.fi/open-call/hicp-2025/

AccommodationArtist FeeCollaboration ProjectCuratorialGrantNetworkingProjectResidencyStipendStudioTravel costs