How can we bring democracy closer to everyday life through art, creativity and citizen participation? The Foundation for Democracy, based in Kuldīga (Latvia), is launching an international call for applications to select six participants from different European countries and professional backgrounds to take part in the ‘European Dream’ artist residency, from 3 to 23 August 2027. As part of the Liepāja – European Capital of Culture 2027 programme, the initiative aims to bring together diverse experiences, knowledge and perspectives to explore new ways of understanding, experiencing and promoting democracy. Over the course of three weeks, participants will work alongside other residents and members of the local community to design participatory activities to be presented at the Kuldīga Democracy Festival on 20 and 21 August 2027.
What does the residency involve?
The residency aims to explore new ways of bringing democracy closer to people, moving beyond institutional spaces and traditional political debates. The objective is to transform concepts such as participation, trust, power, diversity and coexistence into experiences that enable the public to become actively involved. During the three-week stay, participants will develop proposals that will form part of the Kuldīga Festival of Democracy. The activities may take various forms, including:
- Games and participatory activities.
- Workshops.
- Presentations.
- New formats for conversation and debate.
- Creative activities and innovative experiences.
We are looking for proposals that encourage festival visitors to participate actively, rather than simply being spectators. Participants will be able to develop their ideas individually or collaborate with other residents to create joint activities. The local community will also be involved in the planning and development process, fostering an exchange between the experiences of the European participants and the perspectives of the Kuldīga community. Particular value is placed on curiosity, initiative, a willingness to experiment and collaborate, and the ability to transform one’s own experiences into proposals in which others can participate.
Who can take part?
The call for applications is open to people residing in European countries, not limited to European Union Member States.
We are looking for a diverse range of profiles, including:
- Civic activists.
- Artists and creators.
- Researchers.
- Journalists.
- Educators.
- Designers and architects.
- Sportspersons.
- Entrepreneurs.
- Social workers.
- Chefs.
- Programmers and tech developers.
- Marketing and communications professionals.
People from other professional and social backgrounds who are interested in democracy, civic participation and creative collaboration are also welcome to apply. It is not necessary to have a specific background in the arts or politics.
What does the residency offer?
The six selected participants will receive the following support and resources to take part in the residency:
- Free accommodation in the old town of Kuldīga.
- A grant of €1,000 to cover daily expenses during the stay.
- Up to an additional €1,000 to develop and carry out their project at the Festival of Democracy.
The budget allocated for developing activities is separate from the living allowance.
Selection process:
The selection process will consist of two stages:
- Assessment of applications: applications received will be reviewed and shortlisted candidates will proceed to the next stage.
- Online interviews: shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview. Following this stage, the six participants will be selected.
In addition to assessing the quality of the applications and the potential of the proposals, the selection committee will aim to form a diverse group, taking into account aspects such as professional background, country of origin, age, gender and the different perspectives of the candidates.
Registration and contact: Interested candidates can apply via the form.
Application deadline: 15 November 2026.
More information: Eurodesk
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