Short Description
Risvegli a Stavoli Artist Residency is a visual arts residency program taking place in Stavoli, a remote, uninhabited mountain village in Northern Italy, recognized as the most isolated village in the country, and
accessible only by foot with a one-hour hike.
This untouched place, protected for centuries by wild nature, is at the heart of the broader isola di
Stavoli project – of which this residency is a fundamental part – and aims to bring new life to the
village by enhancing its contemplative and hermit-like vocation.
The project seeks to revitalize the village through a multi-year journey, focusing on the concept of
awakening, which acts as the guiding theme. This idea embraces two perspectives: on the one hand,
it symbolizes the rebirth of the territory; on the other, it represents a shift in perception, encouraging
a new and lateral gaze upon the land, explored through vital and unusual viewpoints.
The residency offers artists the chance to fully immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of
Stavoli, becoming, for a few days, both its inhabitants and custodians, free from distractions, inspired
by a sense of creative isolation
Eligibility
We are launching an open call for visual artists under 35 (age 35 included) to take part in a
residency from September 12 to 21, 2025 in the village of Stavoli.
This third edition will focus on the visual arts, encouraging the creation of immersive experiences
that engage with visual perception. The works should be conceived to interact with the natural
and architectural environment, creating a unique dialogue between art, nature, and viewer.
The mountainous, wild and isolated surroundings of Stavoli are intended to become a central source
of inspiration. Artists are invited to draw from the landscape, the village morphology, local
traditions, and natural elements, offering the public new ways of seeing and interpreting reality.
There are no limits on artistic techniques or hybridizations between disciplines (e.g. sound and
light installations, video mapping with performative elements). However, works must be respectful
of and integrated into the surrounding space.
Due to limited facilities in the village, the number of participants per team is capped at 5.
In case of a group submission, the majority must be under 35.
Artists are expected to present their works to the public during final events on September
20–21, 2025.
Submission Requirements
The proposed artwork must reflect the theme of awakening and be site-specific for Stavoli.
For visual installations, basic tools such as saws, chainsaws, drills, screwdrivers, and ladders will be
available, along with equipment for manual work with soil and stone.
Artists must be autonomous in the creation of their works. Upon agreement prior to the residency,
the organizing team will offer logistical and technical support. One or more supervisors will be
available on-site.
The project implementation must be discussed and approved with the artistic direction. Artworks
must be safe and structurally sound to ensure visitor safety during public presentations.
How to Apply
Send your application to isoladistavoli@gmail.com
Subject: APPLICATION – RISVEGLI A STAVOLI – [Project Title]
Program Benefits & Awards
- Each selected project will receive a production grant between €1,500 and €5,000 gross, depending on the number of awarded proposals.
- The association may rent or purchase audiovisual equipment (e.g. speakers, projectors, lighting) up to a value of €1,500 for use during the residency.
- Applicants must specify technical needs in their proposal.
- Travel and transport costs are not covered.
WHAT’S PROVIDED IN RESIDENCY
- Full board and lodging, including vegetarian lunch and dinner provided by the organization. Please inform us by email of any allergies or dietary restrictions. A fully equipped kitchenette available for preparing your own breakfast.
- A covered workspace to shelter and work in case of bad weather.
- Technical, logistical, and organizational support during some phases of work.
- A unique and remote experience, far from urban pollution.
- Tranquility, digital disconnection, and artistic inspiration.
- Natural stages nestled among the Julian Prealps mountains.
Entry Fee
None
Location
Italy
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 7 August 2025
Website Link: https://isoladistavoli.it/residenze-stavoli-visualarts
