Silence Awareness Existence is a thematic residency program in Finland for artists, writers, researchers and creative minds attuned to the theme. The program brings together creative individuals from different backgrounds. Artistic, scientific, meditative and existentialistic approaches are all equally embraced.
Taking place at the heart of the Northern winter, the conditions are excellent for creative contemplation, solitary introspection, concentrating intensively on your work, thinking and being, as well as for sharing experiences and ideas with other, similarly oriented minds. There is no pressure to have a concrete productive outcome, in case your focus is more in inner development, self-reflection and research. All participation in group activities is voluntary.
In order to support mindfulness and maintain a focused working & living environment, the program includes some special elements such as 1-2 silent (no speaking) days per week, limited internet access, and scheduled meditation hours (see program details below).
For creative practice:
- studio spaces and facilities — See facilities here
- photo / sound studio spaces with gear + other creative tools — See list here
- scheduled daily meditation sessions in the meditation hall (voluntary)
- Multidisciplinary group setting of 12-14 creatives.
- weekly group meetings and other events (voluntary)
- artist promotion on our online network
- artist pages in Arteles Catalogue
For everyday life:
- private bedrooms, incl. towels and bedlinen
(Note: There are large working desks also in all bedrooms) - fully equipped kitchen facilities
- traditional Finnish wood-burning sauna
- meditation / yoga hall with matts, cushions & benches
- residency car (with automatic gears) for getting around the region
- internet access (limited in this program, see details above)
- pick-up service for arrivals and departures — See how to get here
- laundry facilities
- pure Northern nature
Program periods 2024
January: 2.-30.1.
February: 1.-29.2.
March: 4.3.-1.4.
(Each monthly program period = 29 days)
Program fees
There is no application fee.
Applicants who otherwise would be unable to join the program can apply for financial support. The number of financially supported residencies is limited.
Regular fee: 1950 € / monthly period
Financially supported fee (limited availability): 1270 € / monthly period
Contributor’s fee (optional): 2610 € / monthly period
All fees include the registration fee (120 € / person, non-refundable, to be paid only if/when becoming selected).
All the residents have accommodation in a private bedroom.
Who can apply
We are looking for emerging and professional artists, creatives and interesting individuals from diverse fields and backgrounds. In the selection process, an emphasis is put on applicant’s approach, alignment and suitability to the program theme. We value authenticity and tenacity.
We do not require a project proposal in the application as this would be in contradiction with the program. Also we understand that when working in the creative field, your subjects, interests and working methods tend to change and evolve along the way.
Requirements & Notes
– You must be at least 23 or older to apply (in 2024)
– Due to the program theme, there is no possibility to work with live music/sound – sound artists working with headphones are welcome to apply.
– Only individual applicants may apply to this program (If wanting to apply us as a duo, please send two individual applications and mention about it at the “extra notes”-box of the application)
– Children are not permitted in the residency.
– Overnight guests are not allowed in this program.
– Acknowledgment regarding health and well-being: Due to the nature of meditation, silent days and their potential to bring forth traumatic memories and sensations, it is important to note that this program may not be suitable for individuals who are coping with severe trauma or serious mental disorders.
Deadline for applications:26th of July 2023
If you need any help or more information, please contact: info@arteles.org
Residency Terms & Conditions.
Website link and apply: Arteles – Freedom for Creativity
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