Organizer Information
Southnord is a cultural platform dedicated to supporting Afro-Nordic artists through exhibitions, networking, and professional development. They organize events like the Southnord Artfest and annual open calls to showcase emerging talent across the Nordic region, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and artistic innovation.
Title & Description
UPNEXT Exhibition 2026 –for Emerging Afro-Nordic Artists
UPNEXT 2026 is an annual exhibition celebrating the next generation of Visual Arts creators of African descent in the Nordic region. This year’s theme, Routes/Roots, explores migration, movement, identity, land, language, and memory. Artists are invited to interpret the theme through works in drawing, photography, painting, sculpture, installation, digital art, and video/film. Selected artists will exhibit at Southnord Artspace in Stockholm, gaining visibility and professional exposure within a growing network of curators and cultural institutions.
Categories
Visual Arts, Drawing, Photography, Painting, Sculpture, Installation, Digital, Video/Film, Multimedia
Eligibility
- Artists aged 18–28 of African descent, born or residing in Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden).
- Open to all Visual Arts disciplines.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Solo exhibition at Southnord Artspace, Stockholm.
- Exhibition honorarium.
- Stipend covering travel costs to attend the opening.
- Featured on Southnord’s website, social media, and archive.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Portfolio: 3–5 previous works (low-res images or links) + sketches for proposed works.
- Artist Statement (max 500 words) connecting practice to the theme.
- Contact information.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Applications Deadline: 15 April 2026
- Selection Announcement: 8 May 2026
- Exhibition: 9 September – 30 October 2026
Location
Stockholm, Sweden
Additional Details
- Selection by a panel of experts evaluating artistic merit, theme relevance, and feasibility.
- Work showcased in a solo exhibition and featured online.
- Open call encourages creative interpretation of Routes/Roots.