In cooperation with a German host organisation, e. g. a theater, museum or other cultural institution, professional artists or workers in the creative sector from all over the world and outside the EU can apply for a scholarship of up to 15 months. This co-financing offer is geared towards those artists striving for peace, freedom and democracy, but finding their free speech restricted or being threatened by state or non-state bodies. If they can prove the necessary language skills for communication with the host and their cultural role in the community, the fund enables them to continue their socially relevant work in a safe space.
It is the host organisation’s duty to make its professional structures, know-how and networks available to enable the scholarshipholders to continue their creative work and strengthen their professional prospects. In addition, hosts assist in everyday matters like the communication with authorities or the accommodation. The Martin Roth-Initiative (MRI) supplements their efforts with a monthly stipend and individually tailored support, including for example training, therapy or exchanges with other host organisations and artists at risk. It is not an emergency program though, meaning that immediate support or the acceleration of processes cannot be offered.
In the tandem application process, the host and the artist have to fill out seperate forms after having enquired access to the according platform. The selection committee will announce a decision in late October, based on the quality of the application and the artist’s previous work, the thematic match between host and artist, the threat, the impact on both communities and diversity aspects. The funding can start in 2025 and organisations are allowed to begin the stay at the earliest in March, giving artists the chance to continuously create relevant work in spite of oppression.
Are you a host wanting to facilitate free artistic expression or a cultural worker in need of a safe abode? Request access to the application platform by messaging apply[at]mri-application.de and read further here.
Deadline: 09 September 2024
