Short Description
The ÖRES residency program focuses on artists working in experimental fields of art, ranging from media, video, sound, photography, and bio art to poetry, dance, performance, and beyond. Art–science collaborations and interdisciplinary projects are particularly encouraged. The program also welcomes researchers in the humanities and social sciences who take an interdisciplinary approach to cultural, environmental, and political themes. Applications are also open to organizations in the fields of art, culture, and research.
Residency periods are always free of charge. However, participants are responsible for their own travel, materials, food, and daily expenses. Letters of invitation can be provided upon request to support funding applications.
The residency house contains two apartments, each functioning as a combined studio and living space. One apartment can comfortably accommodate one to four adults or a small family. Artists are welcome—and even encouraged—to bring partners, peers, or family members. The apartments are equipped with basic necessities, furniture, and tools. While they are not suited for large-scale sculptural or painting work, separate “rough” spaces can sometimes be arranged for such projects during warmer months.
Residents are expected to spend the majority of their time (at least three-quarters) on Örö, though short visits to the mainland are possible. The program does not require participants to complete a full project; the residency may also serve as a catalyst for future work or as dedicated time to focus on a vital stage of an ongoing project.
Due to the island’s remote location, the residency is often a solitary retreat, particularly in the winter months. The program is artist-run with limited resources and operates remotely, requiring participants to maintain a degree of independence. While solitude is common, a service crew maintains the island’s infrastructure, and tourists occasionally visit. Food and other necessities can be ordered from the mainland via ferry or service boat.
The residency organizers provide practical guidance, contacts, and opportunities for meetings or presentations. After completing the residency, participants must submit a short report of their experience, and may occasionally be asked to give an interview. Depending on the nature of their work, residents may also participate in the program’s summer exhibition or other curated opportunities.
Eligibility
The ÖRES residency program focuses on artists working in experimental fields of art, ranging from media, video, sound, photography, and bio art to poetry, dance, performance, and beyond. Art–science collaborations and interdisciplinary projects are particularly encouraged. The program also welcomes researchers in the humanities and social sciences who take an interdisciplinary approach to cultural, environmental, and political themes. Applications are also open to organizations in the fields of art, culture, and research.
Submission Requirements
Individuals: CV and Work Plan (+ Portfolio for visual artists, if not online)
Workgroups: CV(s) and Work Plan(s) (+ Portfolio for visual artists, if not online)
Organizations: Work Plan / Project Proposal
Attachments should be in some the following formats: PDF, JPG, Word, ODF, RTF. The total size of the attachments should not exceed 10MB. Please do not send us video files (you can include video links in your application form and Work Plan).
How to Apply
Online Application
Program Benefits & Awards
The residency house contains two apartments, each functioning as a combined studio and living space. One apartment can comfortably accommodate one to four adults or a small family. Artists are welcome—and even encouraged—to bring partners, peers, or family members. The apartments are equipped with basic necessities, furniture, and tools. While they are not suited for large-scale sculptural or painting work, separate “rough” spaces can sometimes be arranged for such projects during warmer months.
Entry Fee
The selected applicants need to sign a residency agreement and send us a deposit of 100 euros, which will be returned after the residency when you have filled our online report form.
Location
Örö, Finland
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 10 October 2025
Website Link: https://www.ores.fi/applying/
