Organizer Information
Wire Festival is organized by a dynamic collective of cultural innovators based in Ireland, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression through experimental and interdisciplinary practices. Founded in 2015, the festival has evolved into a cornerstone of contemporary arts programming in Europe, fostering collaborations between established and emerging creators. The hosting entity, often in partnership with local venues like Dublin's Project Arts Centre and international networks, emphasizes sonic and visual experimentation, drawing from electronic music heritage while embracing avant-garde visual arts. With a commitment to inclusivity and innovation, Wire Festival has hosted over 500 artists across editions, creating a platform that bridges technology, performance, and community engagement. This background underscores its role as a validated, well-known platform for artistic discovery, attracting global attention for its curated programs that challenge conventional formats.
Title & Description
Title: Open Call for Wire Festival 2026: Sonic Visions Residency & Performance Series
This open call invites artists to contribute to the 12th edition of Wire Festival, themed "Resonant Futures," exploring the intersections of sound, technology, and human experience in a post-digital era. Participants will create immersive works that blend auditory landscapes with visual or performative elements, addressing themes like ecological echoes, algorithmic identities, and communal rhythms. Selected artists will engage in a collaborative residency, culminating in live performances and installations at the festival. The opportunity offers a space for experimentation, where creators can prototype bold ideas, interact with peers, and reach diverse audiences, fostering personal growth and collective dialogue on art's role in shaping tomorrow's narratives.
Categories
- Sound Art and Experimental Music
- Visual Art (including digital and interactive installations)
- Performance Art (live acts incorporating multimedia)
- Video Art and Moving Images
- Interdisciplinary Projects (blending audio, visuals, and technology)
Eligibility
Open to international artists of all backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on emerging and underrepresented voices, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+ creators, women, and non-binary individuals. No age limit, but applicants must demonstrate innovative practice in sound or related fields. Collaborative teams are encouraged. Previous festival participants are welcome to reapply with new proposals.
Program Benefits & Awards
Selected artists receive a €5,000 production grant, fully covered residency accommodation for two weeks in Dublin, round-trip travel reimbursement up to €500, and technical support including equipment loans. Exhibition opportunities include a dedicated festival slot with live audience exposure to over 3,000 attendees, plus digital archiving for global online access. Additional perks encompass mentorship from renowned curators like Barry McCollum, networking events, and post-festival promotion via the festival's social channels and publications. This holistic support not only funds creation but also amplifies artists' careers through visibility and connections in the international arts scene.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Artist CV or bio (up to 2 pages) highlighting relevant experience
- Project proposal (500-800 words) detailing concept, theme alignment, and technical needs
- Portfolio of 5-10 recent works (digital files: audio/video up to 5 minutes each, images in high-res)
- Motivation letter (300 words) explaining interest in Wire Festival and "Resonant Futures" theme
- Optional: Support letter from a collaborator or reference
All submissions in English; file formats: PDF for documents, MP3/MP4/JPG for media.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 23 December 2025
Location
Dublin, Ireland
Additional Details
Artists should note the festival's eco-conscious ethos—proposals incorporating sustainable practices (e.g., low-energy tech) are prioritized. Accessibility accommodations are available upon request, including interpreters for non-English speakers during residency. The selection jury comprises festival directors, sound artists, and curators for a fair, blind-review process. Successful applicants must commit to full participation; partial funding is available for teams. For full guidelines, review the FAQ on the site. This call not only spotlights individual talent but also builds a supportive ecosystem for ongoing artistic evolution.