Residency Open Call: Residing Non-linear Technologies and Sonic Worldings
Art and Media Culture Agency M-Cult in Helsinki and Arte artists’ association/Titanik gallery in Turku are happy to launch Residing Non-linear Technologies and Sonic Worldings, a new residency initiative bringing together intersecting fields of art, media and sonic practices.
The aim of the new programme is to expand understanding of new technologies and sound based practices as creative media within a Nordic and Baltic context. We are interested in rethinking notions of sonic and technology-driven worlds, their connective potential and in exploring the power of artistic practice as worlding otherwise and to reshape future practices and political imaginaries.
Apply by Sunday 30th of August
About the programme
The programme will focus on making vernacular and non-linear technological and sonic environments visible, highlighting vibrant local histories and traditions in the Nordic and Baltic region. We approach technology as a situated practice, shifting attention away from the narratives of “progress” promoted by large technology global companies toward local, indigenous, and community-oriented perspectives.
Through an open call, we will invite two artists to undertake research in two contexts, Turku and Helsinki. The residency offers artists the opportunity to deepen their practice in a new environment and to build contacts that support the development of their creative ideas. Our aim is to learn and unlearn together with the artists what non-linear sonic and media practices might look like within the current social, political, and cultural landscape in which we exist.
The pilot residency programme will host two artists from Nordic and Baltic contexts in Helsinki and Turku during February and March 2027. The selected artists will present their research and practices at public events in both cities.
What we offer for each artist for the full stay:
Accommodation for 2 months divided between Helsinki and Turku (one month in each city);
Travel costs associated with the residency from Nordic-Baltic countries (one return ticket);
Access to Titanik's residency studio space and M-Cult’s office working desk during each stay;
3500 € artist fee;
2000 € production budget.
During the residency, the selected artist will:
Develop their practice through in-depth or focused research;
Receive mentoring and curatorial support from the organisations' staff;
Engage in networking opportunities within the media art and contemporary art scene in Finland, helping to foster future professional connections;
Present their artistic practice and research in two public events.
Who can apply?
Artists from or based-in Nordic or Baltic countries (Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Åland, Faroe Islands, Greenland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania);
Individual artists, this opportunity is not open to collectives this time;
Artists working within the field of sound, media and/or digital arts, or expanded field of vernacular technologies (these definitions can be understood broadly);
Applicants must be available to travel to Finland for a two month period in February and March 2027 to take part in the residency programme and the availability to focus on the research and residency activities.
The open call
To apply, please send us the following documents: a brief letter of motivation, including a research plan for the residency period and how it connects with the residency programme's themes and what would you like to focus on your residency period (max 1-2 pages); your CV and a link to your portfolio.
We are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in our work. We welcome applicants at all stages of their career and from all backgrounds.
Submit your application in English by 30th of August 2026 at 23.59 (UTC+3) with this form.
Interviews with shortlisted artists will be held online before 19th of September 2026. Applicants will be notified via email by the end of September.
About the jury
The jury consists of representatives of partnering institutions:
Jussi Koitela, Director, M-Cult, Helsinki
Farbod Fakharzadeh, Director, Arte/Titanik, Turku
Practicalities
Vallila Residency hosted by M-Cult in Helsinki
30 square meter apartment in Vallila area in a small wooden house, one room, kitchen and bathroom with shower. The apartment is not fully accessible. There are stairs to access the apartment, which is on the 1st floor. There is no elevator.
More accessibility information via request info@m-cult.org
Titanik AiR Residency in Turku
The residence apartment measures 27 m2 and sits on the top floor in a building with an elevator but the space itself including the bathroom is not fully accessible.
More accessibility information via request info@titanik.fi
Information about the partners
Art & Media Culture Agency M-Cult
Founded in 2000, M-Cult develops and presents art and media culture, with a focus on the social and political dimensions of media and technology. We connect artists and local communities to global concerns, operating through art commissions, residencies and learning programmes.
Titanik
Titanik is a contemporary art space located in Turku on the Southwestern coast of Finland. Established in 1988 by the artist-run organization Arte Ry, Titanik aims to create a space for unexpected encounters, artistic dialogue and critical discussion. Titanik plays a significant role in the Finnish contemporary art scene and cultural policy and in addition to exhibitions, hosts a variety of open public and project-based events, such as concerts, talks and performances. Since 2006 Titanik A.i.R annually hosts local and international artists and researchers in Turku as the first artist residency in Finland with a focus on sound art and sonic practices.
Funding
Residing Non-linear Technologies and Sonic Worldings project has received funding for artist residencies from Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Culture from Nordic Culture Point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply more than once with several proposals?
We only accept one submission per artist. If you submit 2 proposals we will only review the one which was submitted later.
I’m in a collective, can we apply together?
This open call is only open to individual artists.
When will I hear back once I submit my residency application?
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an online interview, scheduled to take place in early September. All applicants will be notified of the outcome via email by the end of September 2027.
What is expected of me if I get selected for the residency by the panel of judges?
If you are selected for the residency programme, you are expected to travel to Helsinki and Turku Between February and March 2026 for 8 weeks in total to develop your proposed plan and present your work at a public events.
Can my partner, friend or a child join?
Yes, but their expenses can not be covered.
Contact
Jussi Koitela, Director of M-Cult, jussi.koitela@m-cult.org
Farbod Fakharzadeh, Director of Arte ry and Titanik, director@arte.fi
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