Organizer Information

The open call is part of Magic Carpets, a Creative Europe platform that unites cultural organisations across Europe to support emerging artists through international residencies. Magic Carpets fosters cultural exchange, community‑engaged art, and storytelling by connecting artists with local contexts and communities. The residency in Riga, Latvia is hosted by the New Theatre Institute of Latvia (NTIL) in collaboration with Magic Carpets partners, offering a dynamic programme of creative engagement and community focus.

Title & Description

Magic Carpets Open Call for Artists Residency in Riga, Latvia (2026) This opportunity invites international artists to participate in a residency hosted by the New Theatre Institute of Latvia as part of the Magic Carpets platform. Selected artists will undertake creative projects in Riga that engage with local communities and contexts, enabling socially engaged artistic practices and intercultural dialogue. As a residency under the Creative Europe platform, participants will work collaboratively with local networks, exploring socially responsive art and expanding their professional practice in international settings

Categories

  • Residency
  • Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Multimedia, Public Art, Community Art, Interdisciplinary Arts
  • Culture, Social Practice, Cross Disciplines Magic Carpets residencies typically encourage a range of artistic media and socially engaged forms of practice.

Eligibility

  • Emerging and mid‑career artists from EU Member States and Creative Europe‑eligible countries.
  • Artists with a strong interest in community engagement and cultural exchange.
  • Applicants must demonstrate the ability to travel to Riga, Latvia and participate in residency activities.
  • Residency opportunities are open to international applicants with creative practices that explore socio‑cultural dialogue and community collaboration. Specific eligibility conditions and project requirements may vary per host institution.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Artist fee/honorarium (approx. 1,200 EUR).
  • Travel support (round-trip to Riga).
  • Accommodation during the residency period.
  • Daily allowance for living expenses.
  • Production budget to support development or presentation of work.
  • Professional mentorship and collaborative opportunities with local artists and communities.
  • Networking and visibility through the Magic Carpets platform across Europe.

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

  • Artist CV or resume.
  • Portfolio or creative work samples.
  • Project proposal or statement of intent describing artistic approach and community engagement.
  • Motivation letter outlining fit with the Magic Carpets residency goals.
  • Supporting materials such as images, links, or documentation of previous work. The exact format and submission methods are defined by the host institution (e.g., NTIL).

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 6 February 2026

Location

Riga, Latvia

Additional Details

  • The residency is part of the larger Magic Carpets network — a Creative Europe initiative that encourages artists to work in socially engaged and community‑based frameworks.
  • Artists may collaborate with local organisations such as the Choreographers’ Association of Latvia and community partners in Riga.
  • Projects typically explore cultural accessibility, community participation, intercultural dialogue, and local storytelling.

Website Link: https://magiccarpets.eu/open-call-riga/