Apply Now: STARTS4AFRICA Residency for Artists & Technologists in Nigeria

You, as a creative individual or part of a multidisciplinary team in Nigeria, are presented with a remarkable opportunity to redefine the nexus of Science, Technology, and the Arts. The STARTS4AFRICA Residency Programme invites artists, researchers, technologists, and multidisciplinary teams from Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan African countries to apply for its first-of-its-kind residency. This programme is a beacon of innovation, designed to promote a unique blend of art-driven innovation in the region.

Budget	Up to EUR 35,000 for artist fees, exhibitions, and project implementation costs.
Access	Resources and facilities provided by the Residency Host Institution.
Mentoring	Individualized programme including business and tech/sci sessions.
Network	Connection to the Europe-wide S+T+ARTS network.
Events	Participation in S+T+ARTS4AFRICA Community events, online and on-site.
Exhibition	Potential showcase at Ars Electronica Festival, September 2024.
Visibility	High-impact communication activities promoting artistic output.
Eligibility	Open to artists in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, etc.

Programme Overview

Residency Focus

The STARTS4AFRICA programme offers a six-month residency, focusing on regional challenges such as:

• Food and Water: Addressing critical issues related to sustainability and resources.
• Digital Mapping and Speculative Landscapes: Exploring innovative approaches to digital technology and environmental awareness.
• Culture and Coding: Merging cultural heritage with modern technology.
• Wearable Technology and Smart Textile: Advancing the frontiers of fashion and technology.
• Immersive Storytelling: Creating new narratives through technology.
• Rethinking Sustainable Construction: Innovating in building and architecture.
• Speculative Urbanism: Imagining future urban landscapes.

Benefits of Participation

• Financial Support: Up to EUR 35,000 budget covering artist fees, participation in events, and other relevant costs.
• Access to Resources: Utilisation of facilities provided by the Residency Host Institution.
• Expert Guidance: Assistance from the Local Expert Group and a personalised Mentoring Programme.
• Network Access: Involvement in the Europe-wide S+T+ARTS network.
• Community Events: Participation in S+T+ARTS4AFRICA community events, both online and on-site.
• Exhibition Opportunities: Potential participation in exhibitions like the Ars Electronica Festival in September 2024.
• Visibility: Promotion through high-impact communication activities.

Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality/Residency: Open to nationals or permanent residents of DR Congo, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, or any Sub-Saharan African country. Additionally, artistic teams may comprise members from Europe.

Expected Output

• Innovation Output: Production of an artwork or a functional/speculative prototype addressing local challenges.
• Development Plan: Provision of a descriptive abstract and a detailed plan at the start of the residency.
• Engagement in Events: Active participation in local, national, and international events and masterclasses.
• Communication and Dissemination: Sharing experiences through various media channels.
• Contribution to Impact Assessment: Involvement in the analysis conducted by the STARTS4AFRICA Consortium.

STARTS4AFRICA’s Residency Programme Application Process

• Submission Format: Applications must be submitted online through the provided Online Form here.
• Required Documents: Submission of an Artistic Proposal, Curriculum Vitae, and Portfolio.
• Deadline: February 18, 2024.

For more detailed information, please visit STARTS4AFRICA Artist Residency.

Conclusion

The STARTS4AFRICA Residency Programme represents a groundbreaking opportunity for artists and technologists in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative not only fosters art-driven innovation but also serves as a platform for addressing regional challenges in unique and impactful ways. Your participation could mark the beginning of a transformative journey, bridging the gap between art and technology, and contributing significantly to your local community and beyond. Seize this opportunity to be part of a movement that redefines the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

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