Organizer Information
The Gallery of Naïve Artists Trebnje (Galerija likovnih samorastnikov Trebnje), operating under the Centre for Education and Culture Trebnje (CIK Trebnje), is Slovenia’s foremost institution dedicated to self‑taught and naïve art. Established with a long tradition of supporting grassroots creative expression, the gallery houses a remarkable collection of over a thousand works by international self‑taught artists and organizes the annual International Meeting of Naïve Artists Trebnje, a week‑long creative gathering that has been held since 1968. The Meeting serves as a platform for idea exchange, artistic creation in public view, and community engagement, drawing participants from across the globe. The Gallery also hosts exhibitions, workshops, and public programs that foster appreciation of naïve art and cultural dialogue within Slovenia and internationally.
Title & Description
59th International Meeting of Naïve Artists Trebnje – Open Call for Participation (June 9–13, 2026)
The Gallery of Naïve Artists Trebnje invites self‑taught visual artists to apply for the 59th edition of its annual creative gathering in Trebnje, Slovenia. This residency‑style event brings together international makers to create new works on‑site, share creative processes, and contribute to the gallery’s storied tradition of naïve art. Participants selected by a professional board will work collaboratively within the gallery space over five days, producing original art and engaging with peers, curators, and the local community. The Meeting culminates in an award ceremony where outstanding contributions are recognized with financial prizes and exhibition opportunities.
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Painting
- Drawing
- Installation
- Mixed Media
- Site‑specific
- Public Art (through live creation and exhibition)
Eligibility
- Self‑taught / Naïve Visual Artists
- International applicants from any country
- No formal academic requirements — open to artists without formal training
- Preference given to those who have not previously participated in the Meeting
- No age or thematic restrictions
Program Benefits & Awards
- Free accommodation and meals for the duration of the Meeting
- Reimbursement of travel expenses upon submission of receipts
- Basic art materials provided by the organizer
- Financial award (approx. €2,000 gross) for artistic excellence selected by a professional jury
- Opportunity for a solo exhibition at the Gallery of Naïve Artists Trebnje for prize recipients
- Hands‑on creation and documentation of artwork within a historic gallery setting
- Direct engagement with an international community of artists and supporters of naïve art
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
Applicants must complete the official application form and provide:
- Basic personal information
- Short artist biography
- Documentation of past projects
- 4–5 photos of original artworks
- Links to online portfolios or websites
- List of requested basic materials required for creation during the Meeting
- Agreement to Gallery terms (including donation of at least one created work)
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 February 2026
- Selection Notification: 31 March 2026
- Meeting Dates (In‑Person): 2026‑06‑09 to 2026‑06‑13
Location
Trebnje, Slovenia
Additional Details
Participants are expected to arrive in Trebnje by the morning of 9 June 2026 and engage full‑time in the creative process and public events throughout the week. Artists donate at least one artwork created during the Meeting to the gallery’s permanent collection under agreed terms. Travel expenses are reimbursed only upon submission of receipts. Artists may be accompanied by guests, but additional costs for guests are not covered by the organizer.
