Organizer Information
Helikon Contemporary Art Association is an artist-run initiative based in Turkey, operating through the Helikon Art Center in İzmit. The organization is dedicated to experimental contemporary art, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cultural exchange through residency programs.
Its long-term initiative, “Neighbour’s Country – Neighbour’s Culture,” promotes artistic dialogue between Turkey and neighboring countries. Previous editions have hosted Iranian and Ukrainian artists, and the 2026 edition focuses on Armenian artists, continuing a regional exchange of ideas, practices, and shared cultural narratives.
Title & Description
Neighbour’s Country – Neighbour’s Culture Vol. 3 | Helikon Art Residency Summer 2026 (Armenian Artists)
Helikon Art Center invites Armenian artists to apply for a two-week Residency in İzmit, Turkey, taking place from August 1–15, 2026. The program focuses on cultural exchange, artistic production, and shared regional histories across neighboring countries.
The residency provides time and space for artists to develop new work in a collaborative environment, with access to workshops, studios, and materials. Participants will also present their work in a final group exhibition at the Helikon Art Center.
The program encourages experimental and process-based practices across Visual Arts, Sculpture, Installation, Mixed Media, and related disciplines, fostering dialogue between contemporary artistic production and cultural heritage.
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Sculpture
- Installation
- Mixed Media
- Performance
- Interdisciplinary Arts
- Craft
- Site-specific Art
Eligibility
This opportunity is open exclusively to Armenian artists, including both emerging and established practitioners.
Applicants must:
- Be able to attend the full residency period (Aug 1–15, 2026)
- Work in contemporary or experimental art practices
- Be open to collaborative and intercultural exchange
Program Benefits & Awards
- Free accommodation (shared room)
- Three daily meals + drinks (tea/coffee)
- Access to fully equipped workshops (wood, stone, metal)
- Use of studio and gallery spaces
- Production materials (wood, marble, metal)
- Participation in a final group exhibition
- Cultural and city tour program
- Networking opportunities with other artists
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Portfolio (PDF or link)
- CV
- Project proposal / artistic concept
- Description of intended work
- Optional sketches or visual references
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 May 2026
- Results Announcement: 10 June 2026
- Residency Period: August 1–15, 2026
Location
Helikon Art Center, İzmit, Turkey
Additional Details
The residency emphasizes experimentation, collaboration, and material-based practice in a shared artistic environment near the Marmara Sea. Artists will work in open studios and specialized workshops, culminating in a public group exhibition.
The program is designed to strengthen regional cultural exchange through contemporary artistic practice and shared creative processes.