Open Call for artists: S+T+ARTS in the City - Where our food comes from

This unique opportunity includes a specific challenge dedicated to exploring how we can enhance transparency and collaboration within the Brussels food system, ensuring a seamless journey from farm to table. Application are open until August 25th.

Challenge Description:

The transition to a more sustainable food system is a necessity for the Brussels—Capital Region, addressing both global challenges such as nature protection, biodiversity preservation, and climate change mitigation, as well as local challenges related to social issues, health, economy, and employment. Aligned with the Regional Innovation Plan and the Good Food strategy of the Brussels—Capital Region, this residency invites artists to embark on a critical exploration of the Brussels food system and the relation with the peri—urban and rural hinterlands of the city. The project can culminate in artworks, performances, thought provoking actions or innovative applications that empower closer connections between farmers and city dwellers or between producers and local society.

We want to engage projects that think about the potential of digital technology and take a critical approach to assessing where technology can offer insights and solutions. A comprehensive analysis of the life cycle of one chosen food product, its specific cultural background or role in the urban life of Brussels and/or linking up the proposal with existing initiatives in the Brussels region are strongly encouraged. By starting from a very specific product (for example, but not limited to plant—based food, animal—based food, artificial/synthetic food, and food waste) we aim to make visible local food cultures to envisage new ways to grow, distribute, consume, and recycle sustainable and nourishing food at local scale.

Residency Characteristics:

During the residency, artists will have the support of a Local Expert Group comprising professionals from various fields, including food policy, food science, business, digital technology, urban planning, and the arts, both locally and internationally. The residency partners include EIT Food, Ghent University - Department of Food Technology, Safety & Health, Flanders' Food, Innoviris, VIERNULVIER, and the Regional S+T+ARTS Centre GLUON.

What is offered:

Each residency will receive a generous budget of €40,000, covering artwork production and artist fees. Moreover, throughout the residency, our support network will provide access to experts affiliated with research institutions, universities, university colleges, innovative companies, and start-ups. We are committed to ensuring that you receive the necessary expertise and support to bring your creative vision to life.

The outcome of the residency will be showcased at partner institutions of the S+T+ARTS in the City network, including prestigious exhibitions at Sónar Barcelona, Ars Electronica Festival, and/or the I Love Science Festival in Brussels in 2024. This provides an incredible opportunity to present your work to diverse audiences and gain international recognition.

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to be part of a transformative project at the intersection of art, food, and technology!

We can't wait to witness the artistic innovations that will shape the future of the Brussels food system.