Join a unique project exploring socialist industrial culture through research, creativity, and cultural exchange!
Introduction
Sleeping Giants is an initiative that empowers young creatives to explore the layered history of socialist industrial heritage. Through research residencies, creative workshops, and participation in cultural festivals, participants will investigate the significance of industrial culture in socialist times and its relevance today.
By collaborating with local communities, former industrial workers, and experts, participants will develop creative responses to contemporary heritage challenges. The project fosters intercultural dialogue, inclusivity, and social engagement, bridging the gap between socialist and post-socialist generations.
Sleeping Giants, supported by the British Council, is part of the Culture and Creativity for the Western Balkans project. #CC4WBs is funded by the European Union and aims to foster dialogue in the region by enhancing the cultural and creative sectors for greater socio-economic impact.
Eligibility Criteria
We invite 10 young creatives (5 from Bosnia and Herzegovina, 5 from Serbia) to participate. Eligible applicants include:
- Architects, urbanists, artists, conservators, heritage researchers, designers, social scientists and students or trainees in all these fields
- Aged 21–30
- Interested in industrial heritage and eager to collaborate on creative solutions
Applicants must submit the following:
- Motivation letter (max. 300 words) explaining why they want to join the project
- CV/portfolio showcasing relevant work or experiences, such as:
- Courses on similar subjects
- Research or projects dealing with industrial heritage
- Work in design, art, social studies, urban and architectural design in industrial or de-industrialized zones
Funding Details
- Travel expenses and accommodation during residencies and workshops will be covered.
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Relevance of previous work: Experience in architecture, heritage, art, or related fields
- Motivation: Demonstrated interest in the project’s topics
- Creativity and collaboration potential: Ability to work within an interdisciplinary team
Application Process
- Deadline: 30/04/2025
- Submission: Send your application to [email protected]
Timeline
- Phase 1: Research Residencies (May – June)
- Locations: Novi Sad & Sarajevo
- Activities: Participants will spend five days in each city researching case studies of socialist industrial heritage (tangible and intangible). They will engage with local communities, especially former workers and women, to explore first-hand experiences of industrial culture.
- Phase 2: Creative Workshops (July)
- Locations: Novi Sad & Sarajevo (participants choose one)
- Activities: Five-day workshops where participants create artistic responses to contemporary heritage challenges.
- Phase 3: Public Presentation at Cultural Festivals (September – October)
- Nights of Architecture (Sarajevo) and Festival of Industrial Culture (Novi Sad)
- Final works will be showcased to the public.
Contact Information
For any questions or clarifications, reach out to [email protected]
Join us in rethinking industrial heritage and shaping new perspectives on industrial culture!