Deadline: 29-Jun-2026
Photoworks, in partnership with EASE and PicturingClimate.org, has launched an open call for UK-based artists to participate in Artist Venturing Labs in Crete. The programme supports interdisciplinary collaboration between artists, scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, and local communities through immersive field experiences focused on climate and environmental sustainability.
Program Overview
The Artist Venturing Labs programme is designed as an experimental and collaborative initiative that brings together artists and experts from multiple disciplines to explore climate-related themes and environmental challenges. Rather than functioning as a traditional artist residency, the programme encourages participants to work collectively through research, discussion, experimentation, and knowledge exchange.
The labs will take place in diverse locations across Crete, including UNESCO geoparks, archaeological sites, geological landscapes, underground rivers, mountain sanctuaries, and historical environments that offer opportunities for interdisciplinary exploration.
The programme aims to create new approaches to communication and engagement by connecting art, science, environmental research, and community participation.
Focus Areas and Program Objectives
The programme supports several themes and areas of exploration.
Key objectives include:
• Climate and environmental sustainability
• Landscape and ecological systems
• Deep time exploration
• Interdisciplinary collaboration
• Public engagement
• Archaeology and heritage research
• Geological studies
• Scientific investigation
• Experimental artistic practice
• New communication methods between art and science
Programme Structure
The initiative is designed around collaborative and experiential learning.
Programme activities include:
• Fieldwork experiences
• Assemblage Mapping sessions
• Group discussions
• Presentations
• Reflective exchanges
• Cross-disciplinary collaboration
• Community interaction activities
Five separate labs will be organised, supporting a total of 25 UK-based artists.
Each lab brings together:
• Artists
• Climate scientists
• Archaeologists
• Geologists
• Local Greek participants
• Community partners
Funding and Benefits
Selected participants receive financial and professional support.
Funding and support include:
• £1,000 stipend for participation
• Return air travel from UK airports
• Accommodation support
• Meals during participation
• On-the-ground project expenses
• Access to scientific teams
• Creative mentoring opportunities
• Digital features through Photoworks platforms
• Symposium invitations
• Prototype development support
Additional Institutional Support
Participants will also gain access to wider support opportunities through Nottingham Trent University and the CBIT STEAM Founder Programme.
Additional support may include:
• Venture-building services
• Strategic workshops
• Grant-writing support
• Investor introductions
• Milestone review guidance
• Hardware resources
• Software resources
Expected Outcomes
The programme aims to create meaningful interdisciplinary collaboration and artistic development.
Expected outcomes include:
• New creative and research collaborations
• Expanded understanding of environmental issues
• Innovative artistic approaches
• Stronger connections between science and art
• Enhanced public engagement methods
• Development of experimental creative projects
• Professional networking opportunities
Key Concepts Explained
Deep time refers to the vast timescale of Earth’s geological and environmental history extending far beyond human history.
Interdisciplinary collaboration involves individuals from different fields working together to develop new ideas and solutions.
Assemblage Mapping is a collaborative method that helps participants connect ideas, observations, systems, and relationships across multiple disciplines.
Experimental artistic practices involve exploring new creative approaches, methods, and forms of expression.
STEAM combines science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics into integrated approaches to innovation and learning.
Who is Eligible?
The programme welcomes artists from a wide range of backgrounds and creative practices.
Eligible applicants include:
• UK-based artists
• Photographers
• Sound artists
• Moving image practitioners
• Installation artists
• Performance artists
• Sculptors
• Archive-based practitioners
• Writers
• Drawing practitioners
• Hybrid and cross-disciplinary artists
Applicants are not required to have:
• Academic affiliations
• Entrepreneurial experience
• Previous experience working with scientists
Applicants must:
• Be based in the United Kingdom
• Commit to one full week in Crete
• Participate in online engagement activities before and after the lab
• Engage across the 24-month project period
Why This Opportunity Matters
Many environmental challenges require collaboration across disciplines and communities. The programme creates opportunities for artists to contribute creative perspectives while working with scientific and local knowledge systems.
Potential benefits include:
• Increased professional visibility
• Stronger collaborative networks
• Exposure to scientific research environments
• Expanded artistic approaches
• International engagement opportunities
• Access to long-term mentorship and support systems
What Applicants Need to Do
Interested applicants should prepare for both on-site and long-term participation requirements.
Recommended steps include:
- Review programme themes and objectives.
- Assess how your artistic practice connects with interdisciplinary work.
- Confirm availability for one week in Crete.
- Ensure commitment to ongoing online engagement.
- Prepare materials that demonstrate your creative practice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid common application weaknesses.
Common mistakes include:
• Assuming scientific experience is required
• Submitting work unrelated to collaborative practice
• Ignoring long-term participation requirements
• Providing limited information about artistic approaches
• Overlooking interdisciplinary interests
• Failing to demonstrate engagement potential
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for the Artist Venturing Labs?
UK-based artists from a wide range of disciplines and practices can apply.
How many artists will be selected?
A total of 25 artists will participate across five labs.
Is there funding available?
Yes. Selected participants receive a £1,000 stipend along with travel, accommodation, meals, and other programme support.
Do applicants need experience working with scientists?
No. Previous experience with scientists is not required.
Do applicants need entrepreneurial experience?
No. Entrepreneurial experience is not necessary.
Where will the labs take place?
The labs will be held in various locations across Crete.
What is the duration of participation?
Participants must attend one full week in Crete and engage online throughout the wider 24-month project period.
Conclusion
The Artist Venturing Labs programme offers UK-based artists a unique opportunity to explore climate, science, and environmental sustainability through interdisciplinary collaboration. By combining artistic practice with scientific research and community engagement, the initiative supports innovative approaches that can create new forms of knowledge, creativity, and public impact.
For more information, visit Photoworks.
