Open call (RE)claimingthevoid: performative acts in public spaces
Are you between 18 and 30 years old? Do you have a passion for exploring and reimagining public spaces through artistic expression? We invite you to join (RE)claimingthevoid, a collaborative project for Ghent European Youth Capital that delves into the history, use, and transformation of public spaces in Bologna. The exchange consists of eight (8) participants from Ghent and eight (8) participants from Italy who will meet in Bologna from the fourth to the eighth of March.
About the project
The starting point of this project is the connection Astrid had with Camere d’Aria, the place where she often visited to unwind after studying dance. Lydia invited her to share her dance practice. Although shy at the start, it was a defining moment.
During further conversations with Lydia the transformation of public spaces in Bologna came up as a current necessity. Where Bologna was once known as a hub for artistic expression and experimentation in open spaces, the reality now is that this creative and collective expression is under pressure.
(RE)claimingthevoid is an experimental project that invites participants to investigate the dynamics of public spaces—how they are occupied, transformed, and experienced by different identities. We explore questions such as: How public is a public space? How can we reclaim it artistically, creatively and non-aggressively? What are ways in which we can do this within this socio-political context?
This project is not about creating a predefined script; it’s about giving you the tools to express yourself artistically in ways that challenge and reshape the conventional understanding of public spaces. Whether through installation, performance, or other creative mediums, your contributions will help us explore the intersections of space, identity, and community. In this 7 day-immersion, we work together up to a climax on the 8th or March, International Women’s Day: a day full of informal gatherings, speeches, presentations and much more in public spaces!
Who should apply?
- Youngsters: This project is open to individuals from 18 to 30 years old with or without professional artistic or anthropological experience, but who above all are deeply motivated and feel a connection to the topic.
- Creative thinkers: We seek participants who are eager to express themselves artistically, whether through visual art, performance, or other forms of expression. Are you someone with a critical, curious, context-sensitive and independent attitude to transform ideas into tangible form?
- Collaborators: Those interested in working in a group setting, brainstorming, and developing ideas collectively.
Main language will be English. Do you feel stimulated? Do you have doubts? Do not hesitate to ask your questions at reclaimingthevoid@gmail.com. Enthusiasm is decisive.
What do we offer?
- A seven-day artistic immersion: A week of intercultural encounters, exchange and learning from each other within the frame of an organised and safe space.
- Financial: 95% of the costs of travel, accommodation, lunch and dinner will be provided by the project.
Additional expenses (i.e. snacks, tickets for other activities) and breakfast, lunch & dinner on the travel days are for your own account. - Provisional programme (see website below)
More information
Find more information about participation details, schedules and how to apply (before the 14th of December) via the link below.
