‘COAST
LINE(S) WANING’
All for
a few extra sunbeds
OPEN CALL
Deadline for
Submission: April 20,2023
Please click here for the application form and here to download the Open Call.
ABOUT
"COAST LINE(S) WANING" is a
critique/commentary on the dire environmental situation faced along the
coastlines of Cyprus. The project highlights the effects of human greed and
indifference to the natural environment, particularly when it comes to
political and economic interests that lead to the destruction of our coastal
ecosystem.
The Tourism Paradox: In recent years, the
coastline of Cyprus has undergone “reconstruction”, driven by a desire for a
little extra profit and tourism revenue. Sand dunes have been leveled, natural
rock formations removed, tall grasses slashed, etc., all leading to the loss of
natural habitats and the alteration of the island's natural landscape. Iconic
beaches all around the island have been affected by this destructive trend. All for a few extra sunbeds and
amenities for tourists, at the expense of our environment.
We aim for a
dynamic and thought-provoking campaign designed to raise awareness among both
authorities and the indifferent public about these critical environmental
issues facing the island’s coastlines. We seek to encourage individuals to take
action and make a clear and decisive stance towards protecting and preserving
the environment. This campaign should serve as a catalyst for positive change,
inspiring a greater sense of appreciation for the natural world and the
invaluable resources it provides.
What we provide
- Fee
per artist of 3,750 Euro (including stipend, basic production/ materials, and
all taxes) to two artists from across the divide
- Separate
campaign budget
- Connection
with environmental organizations operating in Cyprus and research support
What we are looking for
- Artists
committed to a healthy environment for the whole island and a strong interest
in environmental activism
- Openness
to co-develop the campaign with the Visual Voices team
- Visual
artists with multidisciplinary background
- Experience
with digital arts/ stencil/ chalk/ installation/ etc. considered as a plus but
not required
- Artists
interested in a mix of mainstream media (i.e., billboards, etc.) and guerilla
style approaches
- Artists
committed to reducing the environmental impact of this intervention
Who is eligible
- Based
in Cyprus
- Visual
artist (any visual art discipline)
- 18+
years of age
- Available
to participate in project activities from May - December 2023
- Good
speaking and understanding of English
- Willing
to enter the UN buffer zone and cross the checkpoints for project activities
and events
Schedule
- Deadline
to apply April 20, 2023
- Applicants
will be notified by May 10, 2023
- Research
and campaign development May- September, 2023
- Campaign
implementation September- December, 2023
Who we are
Visual Voices is a
Nicosia-based non-profit organization, working with emerging visual artists
interested in developing or continuing with socially engaged artistic practices.
Our methodology is built around three key pillars: artist in residence
programs, non-commercial platforms of expression, and community partnerships.
Together these elements of our work create space for dialogue and new
perspectives around pressing social challenges.
Coast Lines Waning
is implemented in cooperation with the Allianz Foundation.
![]()
FAQ
1) How to
apply?
- The
application can be filled out through this form: https://forms.gle/kv1JNcYTcZi3cqXA6
- Along
with the application you will be asked to attach an artist portfolio and CV
- All
applications must be submitted before the stated deadline (April 20, 2023)
2)Selection criteria
Applications will
be evaluated on the following areas: eligibility based on stated criteria,
artist portfolio, and campaign proposal ideas.
*We do not
expect a detailed campaign structure but would like to understand how you would
approach this task.
3) How many artists
will be selected?
A total of two
artists will be selected.
4) When can we expect to hear back?
Selected
candidates will be notified by May 10, 2023. All other applicants will be
contacted via email by mid-May.
5) What
kind of campaigns do you accept?
We accept
campaigns that highlight the importance of protecting the sea/coastline and the
local ecosystems. This could include artworks that raise awareness about the
impact of human activities such as the destruction of natural landscapes,
pollution (i.e., plastic waste, microplastics, etc.), and climate change on
marine life, or campaigns that promote sustainable practices that help to
preserve a healthy ecosystem.
6) Do I need to be Cypriot to apply?
No, however the
participating artists must be based in Cyprus.
7) Can I submit
my application in a language other than English?
We will only be
able to review applications sent in English. If this is difficult for you,
please contact us about how we may be able to support.
8) What is
meant by co-development with the Visual Voices team?
This project is
seeking to connect socially engaged artistic production with activism and
campaigning. Visual Voices will play a large role in developing and
coordinating the campaign. Selected artists and VV team will need to work as a
team to achieve high quality (both aesthetically + logistically) actions.
9) Who will be
selecting the applicants?
Applications will
be reviewed by a selection committee including Visual Voices staff, civil
society (environmental) representatives, etc.
10) What will happen to my artwork after the campaign
ends?
Any artworks
produced during this residency will be gifted or loaned to spaces, willing to
permanently exhibit them.
11) What are the application questions and required
documents?
1. First name
2. Last name
3. City of residence
4. Email
5. Telephone number
6. I have read the eligibility requirements
and confirm that I am eligible to participate
7. Briefly present yourself, your artistic
practice, and your commitment to a new climate culture (max 2,500 characters)
8. Briefly describe your proposal for the
campaign. Please include a description, the materials and techniques that will
be used (max 2,500 characters)
9. Briefly explain how you can imagine working
with the Visual Voices team for the co-creation of the campaign, including your
needs and expectations for this project (max 2500 characters)
10. Please attach: artist portfolio, CV, and
(if you would like) a document of your choice
For any additional
questions, please contact: contact@visual-voices.org
