Open call – independent visual artists

Calling all artists – last chance to apply!

Open Call deadline: 30 January 2026 | Free Entry

In partnership with the International Shakespeare Festival Craiova, we are proud to launch an open call for artists to bring new visual encounters to Craiova’s cultural scene during this year’s festival edition.

The Shakespeare Festival Craiova is over 30 years old and boasts a vast international dimension, continually growing in scope and ambition with each edition. The overall theme of the 2026 edition is Will Matters, inspired by Prospero’s last speech in The Tempest: “We are such stuff as dreams are made on.”

What are we looking for?

• Five international independent visual artists (from Romania and/or elsewhere).

• Artists may work independently or collaboratively (pairs or groups of 3–5).

• Work inspired by William Shakespeare in any form: the man, his work, his characters, the costumes, the places, or any (still) hidden details you may research and discover about the “Bard of Avon”.

• The visual artists have to be prepared to travel, live, work, and exhibit in Craiova for approximately ten (10) days, between 15–25 May 2026.

• The visual artists need to be open to the enjoyment of such a great challenge and honour to participate in a prestigious cultural festival.

• Submission of Proposal (see below) and a concise résumé.

What are we offering?

• Travel expenses or Return flights for each artist for up to 500 euros.

• Artist’s participation fee: 1000 euros.

• Up to 500 euros for art materials/technology/logistics/labour.

• Accommodation in Craiova (centre).

• Three meals a day for the entire duration of the stay in Craiova.

• Working space/studio.

• Exhibition space/Technical support for exhibiting.

• Media exposure.

Proposal

Artists need to submit a written proposal in English (max. 800 words), addressing:

• An indication of the Shakespearean elements that may interest you.

• What sort of research would you suggest you may engage with?

• A few details about your work methods (note that you will have a relatively limited time for conception, production, and exhibiting).

• An indication of your practice (mediums, size, materials).

• Will you prepare something in advance? Sketches, plans, graphs, ideas, interviews, research? Do you have any special requirements before your visit, should you be selected for the festival?

• You may include some photos of the past projects that you may consider to be relevant for this.

Completed applications should be submitted no later than the 30th of January 2026 at 00:00 to this address: shakespearefestival26@gmail.com