Short Description
Halaqat – an Arabic term meaning ‘multiple links and circles’ – provides a space for cultural actors from Arab and European countries to artistically reflect on themes of care, exploring them through the lens of gender. Launched in 2021, the project fosters exchange and supports artistic productions and cultural scenes in both regions. In its second phase, running from 2024 to 2027, the main activities of Halaqat are taking place in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, and Belgium.
Halaqat explores the notion of ‘care’, a concept which is deeply related to gender topics in both regions, and tackles the questions of gender equity and sensitivity, and power dynamics, in an inclusive and intersectional way. Care is a multifaceted notion. It can refer to a particular attention or concern for someone or something, but it can also convey the idea of worrying about or looking after something, implying a sense of responsibility or vigilance. The project invites dialogue with artists, cultural practitioners and audiences, exploring the theme of care on both a structural and artistic level. How can different notions of care be addressed and expressed? How do dominant narratives influence which bodies are cared about (and which are not), and how can these narratives be challenged? How can we strengthen practices of care in the cultural scene and in society at large?
Halaqat invites photographers to apply for a 3-month residency in Cairo from September 15 to December 15, 2025, hosted at the Goethe-Institut’s White Villa. The residency supports artistic projects exploring the themes ofcareandgender, offering time, space, and resources for reflection, creation, and exchange.
Eligibility
The call is open to photographers based in Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and EU member states. Selected artists will receive a grant covering travel, production, and daily expenses. Additional support is available for those with special needs or caregiving responsibilities.
Submission Requirements
A passport with minimum 6 months validity from the day of departure from Egypt.
A valid ID or proof of legal residence, with clear indications on your current place of residence.
A CV.
An artistic portfolio.
A concept note of the project you would like to explore during your residency.
How to Apply
Applicants are required to create an account and fill out the online application on the
Goethe-Application Portal (GAP): Goethe-Application Portal
Program Benefits & Awards
Funding Objectives and Principles
Halaqat provides artists with the opportunity to undertake an art residency in Cairo, Egypt, for 3 months, supporting the development of new artistic projects that address the themes of care and gender. A total of 3 artists will be hosted. Selected artists will receive a lump sum grant covering travel, production costs, showcasing, and per diems. The residency also provides extra top-up funding for artists who require additional support linked to visa costs, family responsibilities, and/or special needs (e.g. disability).
Co-funding from other source(s) is possible, provided that there is no double funding, as regards EU financial contributions, to carry out the same proposed residency project that is the subject of this application. However, if costs are covered by another source, they should be mentioned in the application form, and/or declared to Goethe-Institut if received at a later stage of the grant cycle.
1.3 Calculation of the Grant
a. Maximum Grant Amount (in EUR):
- 2,950€ for a 3-month residency (paid in Euro or local currency), excluding additional top-ups for disability, family responsibilities, or visa costs.
b. Breakdown of the Grant Amount: - Travel cost: 550€
- Per diem: 800€/month
Depending on the individual projects and the needs and additional budget can be provided
for production costs and showcasing preparation after submitting a financial plan at the beginning of the residency in Cairo. - Production costs up to 500€
- Showcasing preparation up to: 250€
Additionally, the following top-ups will be provided as a one-time payment for the entire period, if applicable, as your family situation or your special needs should not prevent you from taking part in the residency: - Family top-up for artists with family responsibilities: on a case-by-case basis.
- Accessibility top-up for artists with special needs (e.g. disability): on a case-by-case basis.
- Visa top-up: will be paid separately (refund of real cost)
Entry Fee
None
Location
Cairo, Egypt
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 26 May 2025
Website Link: https://www.goethe.de/ins/eg/en/kul/sup/ela.html#accordion_toggle_10792970_4
