The fellowship programme for young scientists offers a distinctive opportunity for ten early-career scientists to collaborate with ten acclaimed contemporary artists over twelve months. This fellowship is designed to facilitate a dynamic exchange of ideas, knowledge, and methodologies, addressing a global challenge identified by the artist and the local challenge committee. Through this collaboration, young scientists will have the chance to expand their research horizons and contribute to impactful, interdisciplinary dialogue.

APPLY FOR YOUNG SCIENTIST

 

 

LOCAL CHALLENGE

Raising public awareness about the impact of marine alien species and climate change on the Mediterranean marine ecosystems

• Problem Statement:
  Climate change poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems, including the Mediterranean Sea. Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and changing currents can disrupt the balance of marine biodiversity and alter the distribution of species. These changes create favourable conditions for the introduction and spread of marine alien species, which can have detrimental effects on native species and the overall ecosystem. In the Mediterranean Sea, the influx of marine alien species can lead to competition for resources, predation on native species, and the spread of diseases, further jeopardizing the fragile balance of the marine environment.
  
  Addressing the impact of climate change on the Mediterranean Sea requires a multifaceted approach that includes monitoring and understanding the shifting patterns of marine alien species. By studying the interactions between native and alien species and their response to environmental changes, scientists and conservationists can develop strategies to mitigate the negative effects of these intrusions on the native biodiversity and ecosystems of the Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, raising awareness about the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems and the spread of marine alien species is crucial for fostering public support and driving collective action to protect the unique biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea.
   
• The challenge:
  The challenge will be to raise awareness to consumers and the general public about the consumption of sustainable seafood products by specifically promoting the consumption of marine alien species. By doing this, the project will contribute to:

• • Supporting small-scale fishery products (socially important)
  • Ecologically and socially conscious seafood products
  • Low carbon footprint
  • Zero-waste approach by mitigating the discard of less-known marine species
     

• Main image of the challenge:
   
  
  

   

 

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

• Participants: 10 young scientists paired with 10 established artists
• Residency Duration: December 2024 – March 2027
• Timeline:

1. 1. Reflection (Dec 2024 – Feb 2025): Knowledge exchange and concept refinement.
   2. Development (Mar – May 2025): Conducting experiments and prototyping ideas with the artist.
   3. Evaluation (Jun – Jul 2025): Presentation of intermediary project outcomes.
   4. Production (Aug – Dec 2025): Production of final outputs by the artist and scientist with institutional support.
   5. Outreach (Sep 2025 – Mar 2027): Present outcomes at events and a traveling exhibition in 5 European countries (Belgium, Poland, Italy, Austria and France).

 

BENEFITS

• Funding: €1,500 total residency fee.
• Support: Access to a network of experts, guidance from host institutions, and dissemination assistance.
• Opportunities: Expand your research and gain high-level visibility via major events; such as the Ars Electronica Festival, New European Bauhaus Festival etc.

 

EXPECTATIONS

• Meetings: At least six with the artist, including at least one in-person.
• Collaboration: Conduct research and contribute to the creation of a tangible artistic output.
• Engagement: Participate in discussions, events, and workshops to disseminate outcomes.

 

HOW TO APPLY

• Application Process for Scientists: Complete the online application form before 31st October 2024, 23:59 CET. For detailed challenge descriptions and eligibility criteria, please refer to the Application Guide.

 

We invite emerging artists to apply for one of eight research-driven residencies. This programme pairs each artist with an established scientist for a year-long collaboration, focusing on local issues related to sustainable development. This residency offers a unique chance for artists to engage deeply with scientific research and explore the role of art in addressing environmental challenges.

APPLY FOR EMERGING ARTIST

 

 

LOCAL CHALLENGE

Preparing for Drought Resilience:
Addressing Water Scarcity and Desertification in Cyprus

• Problem Statement:
  In Cyprus, 51% of the island is facing critical danger of desertification due to changing rain patterns and excessive water usage in agriculture. Aquifers are being depleted, and erosion is accelerating. Sustainable land management practices are lacking.
   
• The challenge:
  Cyprus is experiencing a critical threat of desertification, with changing rainfall patterns exacerbating water scarcity and erosion. Unsustainable agricultural practices, utilizing 80% of water resources, contribute significantly. Addressing this issue requires implementing nature-based solutions, sustainable reforestation, and water-smart agriculture practices. These initiatives not only benefit Cyprus but also serve as a model for the wider MENA region.
   
• Main image of the challenge:
  
  

 

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

• Participants: 8 emerging artists paired with 8 established scientists.
• Residency Duration: December 2024 – December 2025.
• Timeline:
  1. Reflection (Dec 2024 – Feb 2025): Knowledge exchange and concept refinement
  2. Concept Development (Mar – May 2025): Create a detailed project proposal and mock-up.
  3. Evaluation (Jun – Jul 2025): Assess project impact and gather feedback. Presentation of intermediary project outcomes.
  4. Production (Aug – Dec 2025): Develop final artworks or prototypes with host support.
  5. Exhibiting (Sep 2025 – Mar 2027): Showcase at local exhibitions and in a traveling exhibition across Europe.

 

BENEFITS

• Funding: €2,500 total residency fee.
• Support: Coverage for travel and subsistence costs, access to a wide network, and dissemination assistance.
• Opportunities: Present at major European festivals and exhibitions, such as the Ars Electronica Festival.

 

EXPECTATIONS

• Meetings: At least six with the scientist, including one in-person.
• Collaboration: Work with scientists to create an artistic output, such as an artwork or prototype.
• Engagement: Participate in events and share progress through various media.

 

HOW TO APPLY

• Application Process for Artists: Complete the online application form before 31st October 2024, 23:59 CET. For detailed challenge descriptions and eligibility criteria, please refer to the Application Guide.