The artistic objective of the project “ElektrON – the Future of Amber” is to rediscover the lesser-known properties of amber—the symbolic identity marker of Liepāja and the entire “land of (un)rest”—by re-evaluating assumptions regarding this fossil resource found along the Baltic Sea coast. Through an international contemporary art residency, symposium, and exhibition, we will bring together artists and researchers from Latvia and abroad to reflect on its past and present significance, as well as its future potential, within a symbiosis of art and science.
Amber—much like other fossil resources—holds deep significance not only in Latvian culture but also in the cultures of many other nations: it is intertwined with various myths, beliefs, social structures, and international trade routes. It has inspired both artists and scientists alike; in fact, the phenomenon of electricity derives its name from the Ancient Greek word elektron, meaning “amber,” as the Greeks observed amber’s electrostatic properties—or “action at a distance”—as early as the end of the 7th century BCE. However, as these and other fossil resources are gradually depleted by human economic activity, we must redefine their significance and seek ways to minimize our interference and the restructuring of the Earth’s geological formations.
Through the international open call for the “ElektrON – Amber’s Future” project, five artists will be selected who integrate technology and scientific insights into their creative practice. In collaboration with researchers and historians at an international symposium in June 2026 on the shores of the Baltic Sea—in Liepāja and Pāvilosta—they will deliberate on the cultural footprint of amber and other fossil resources.
During creative residencies organized in cooperation with the “VV Foundation,” artists are invited to seek innovative and provocative ways to utilize and represent fossil resources today. Their insights will be integrated into artworks to be featured in the project’s final exhibition at the Liepāja Museum from January 8 to June 27, 2027. This exhibition will showcase “Liepāja 2027—the European Capital of Culture”—as a crossroads for the interaction between nature and technology.
Curator: Anna Priedola
Project Manager: Sabīne Jermaloviča
Visual Identity: Andrejs Poikāns
Here is the English translation of the eligibility and conditions sections for the open call.
ELIGIBILITY: WHO CAN APPLY?
- Artists exploring technology and/or science in their creative practice
- Artists residing in Latvia or Europe.
- Artists with at least 3 years of professional experience, as reflected in the portfolio attached to the application.
- Availability to participate in the symposium during the period of June 12–14 in Pāvilosta (Latvia)
TERMS AND SELECTION
The symposium and exhibition organizers, the association “ASTE. Art, Science, Technology, Education,” will provide:
- Accommodation and living costs during the symposium (June 12–14) in Pāvilosta and Liepāja (Latvia).
- Travel expenses to Liepāja/Pāvilosta and back to the country of residence (up to 400 EUR).
- 1–3 week stay in Liepaja/Pāvilosta during Summer 2026 in accordance to the aggreement between artist and organiser
- Artist Fee: 1,500 EUR (gross) (1,000 EUR for the residency and symposium / 500 EUR for the exhibition).
- Production Costs: Coverage for the creation of a new artwork up to 1,000 EUR.
- Travel and accommodation for the exhibition opening event on January 8, 2027.
Artist Selection:
The association ASTE will select 5 artists through this international open call. The jury—composed of representatives from ASTE, the “VV Foundation,” and the “Foundation 2027”—will choose the most conceptually relevant and technically/thematically innovative proposals for artworks and research, also taking into account the artists’ previous creative portfolios. Results will be announced via email by 30.04.2026
APPLICATION FORM
Apply till Apri 19 23:59l. Link: https://ej.uz/elektron
CONTACTS
Email for inquiries: elektron@aste.lv or sabiine.j@gmail.com
Website: https://aste.gallery/
The project “ElektrON – the Future of Amber” is being implemented within the framework of the program “Liepāja 2027”, using the funding allocated by the Ministry of Culture, Liepāja City, South Kurzeme and Kuldīga regions. The “Liepāja 2027” program is supported by the main partner in the field of environmental education and sustainability AS “CleanR Grupa”, the main partner in the field of mobility and international communication AS “airBaltic Corporation”, the mobility partner – transport carrier SIA “Lux Express Latvia”. The activities of the association “ASTE. Art, Science, Technology, Education” are supported by the State Culture Capital Fund.
