ART, CRAFT & MATERIAL RESEARCH
Artist Residency · Barcelona · 2027
OPEN CALL 2027
Application deadline: 30 November 2026
Residency start: 11 January 2027
Location: Poble Sec, Barcelona, Spain
A space for artistic experimentation, material exploration and creative exchange.
About the Residency
Art, Craft & Material Research is an independent, artist-run residency based in Poble Sec, Barcelona. It offers artists, makers, designers and researchers a dedicated environment to explore ideas, experiment with materials and develop their artistic practice. The residency is founded on an interest in the relationship between art, craft, materials and processes of making. We believe that working with materials is not simply a technical process, but also a way of thinking, questioning and discovering new forms of expression.
Our aim is to create a welcoming and collaborative environment where artists can focus on their work, exchange knowledge and explore new approaches beyond the boundaries of their usual practice. We are particularly interested in projects that involve hands-on experimentation, material investigation and interdisciplinary dialogue.
The residency provides an opportunity to step away from everyday routines, dedicate time to an individual project and engage with a creative environment in Barcelona.
Our Approach
We approach artistic practice as an open process of research, experimentation and discovery. We are interested in the connections between traditional craft techniques and contemporary artistic approaches, as well as the possibilities that emerge when different disciplines and materials come together.
We welcome projects that explore the relationship between artistic expression, materials, techniques and processes of production.
There is no requirement to produce a finished artwork during the residency. We value the process of exploration, testing, learning and developing ideas as much as the final result.
About the Founders
The residency is founded by Zofia Anna Krakowiak and Omid Sheikhbaglou, whose complementary backgrounds in architecture, art, ceramics and material research shape its approach.
Zofia is a Polish architect and ceramic artist based in Barcelona since 2015. She runs a ceramic studio producing handmade work for restaurants and private clients. Her practice combines an architectural understanding of space and form with an interest in materiality, craftsmanship and the possibilities of ceramics. She has participated in international artist residencies, ceramic festivals and exhibitions.
Omid is an Iranian artist and researcher whose practice includes wood, ceramics, drawing and painting. His work explores material, artistic and cultural questions through both practical and theoretical research. He has participated in solo and group exhibitions, conferences on Islamic art and is currently pursuing doctoral research at Istanbul University.
Together, they bring different perspectives and experiences to the residency, creating an environment that connects artistic practice, craftsmanship, research and cultural exchange.
The Studio
The residency takes place in our fully equipped creative workshop in Poble Sec, Barcelona. The studio is organised around hands-on artistic production and offers facilities for ceramics, woodwork, sculpture and other material-based practices. Artists have access to a shared working environment with tools, workbenches, equipment and dedicated areas suitable for a range of creative processes. The facilities are intended to support both independent work and experimentation with different materials and techniques.
Each artist's working area is arranged according to the needs of their project and the available studio space. Access to particular tools and equipment is discussed and agreed in advance.
The studio is shared with the hosts and, depending on the residency period, may also be shared with another resident artist. We aim to maintain a respectful and collaborative atmosphere that allows everyone to work independently while benefiting from an environment of exchange.
The studio has fixed daily opening hours, which are communicated to selected artists before their arrival.
Who Can Apply?
We welcome applications from emerging and established artists, designers, makers and researchers working across a broad range of disciplines, including:
> Ceramics and pottery
> Sculpture and three-dimensional practices
> Woodwork and object-making
> Material-based research
> Installation and spatial practices
> Mixed media and interdisciplinary projects
> Contemporary craft and experimental making
We are particularly interested in projects that explore the relationship between artistic expression, materials, techniques and processes of production.
>>> Essential experience requirement <<<
Previous hands-on experience working with clay or wood is an essential requirement for applying to this residency.
Applicants must have practical experience with at least one of these materials: clay or wood. This experience should be clearly demonstrated through their portfolio and/or described in their CV or project proposal.
We welcome artists from different disciplines and backgrounds, but this residency is specifically intended for practitioners who already have experience working with clay or wood and wish to further develop, experiment and expand their practice.
Projects involving materials or technical processes that require specialised equipment, extensive space or particular safety arrangements should be discussed with us before acceptance.
The Residency Experience
The residency provides time, space and facilities for artists to concentrate on their own projects in a supportive creative environment.
During their stay, resident artists can:
> Develop an existing project or explore a new idea.
> Experiment with materials, techniques and processes.
> Work independently in the studio.
> Exchange ideas and knowledge with the hosts.
> Connect with aspects of Barcelona's artistic and creative community.
> Discover local artists, galleries, workshops and cultural initiatives through suggestions and introductions where possible.
We encourage informal conversations and the sharing of creative processes. We believe that exchange can happen naturally through working alongside one another, discussing ideas and learning from different approaches.
Depending on the artist's interests and the nature of the project, an open studio or informal presentation of work in progress may be organised towards the end of the residency. Such activities are optional and discussed individually.
There is no obligation to organise a workshop, give an artist talk or present a completed body of work.
Open Call 2027 — Dates and Duration
We are currently accepting applications for our 2027 artist residency programme.
The upcoming residency period is expected to begin around 11 January 2027. Exact starting dates and individual schedules will be discussed with selected artists.
Available residency formats:
> Two weeks
> One month (four weeks)
Longer stays may be considered individually, depending on availability and the requirements of the project.
We host a maximum of two resident artists at the same time. This allows us to maintain a focused working environment and provide a more personal experience for each participant.
Application deadline: 30 November 2026.
Applications received by the deadline will be reviewed by the residency founders. Selected applicants will be contacted by email to discuss availability and practical arrangements.
Location — Poble Sec, Barcelona
The studio is located in Poble Sec, a neighbourhood in Barcelona with a distinctive local character and a lively cultural atmosphere.
Barcelona offers a rich environment for artistic research, with museums, galleries, independent art spaces, workshops, cultural organisations and creative communities. During the residency, artists are encouraged to explore the city and engage with its artistic and cultural life.
We can share local recommendations and, where appropriate, introduce residents to artists, workshops and other creative contacts.
Practical Information and Fees
Residency fees:
> Two weeks: €600
> One month: €1,000
The residency fee includes access to the shared studio, use of agreed tools and equipment, a working area arranged according to the project, and practical guidance from the hosts.
The fee does not include accommodation, travel, meals or personal expenses.
Materials and production costs are not automatically included. Clay, glazes, special materials, kiln firings, specialist tools, large-format production and other exceptional technical requirements may involve additional charges. These needs and any associated costs will be discussed and agreed with the artist before the residency begins.
Accommodation: Accommodation is not provided. Artists are responsible for arranging and covering their own accommodation in Barcelona. General recommendations may be provided upon request.
Payment: A deposit is required to confirm and secure the residency place. The remaining balance must be paid before arrival. Payment details and deadlines are provided to selected artists during the confirmation process.
Languages: Communication with the hosts is available in English and Spanish.
Scholarships and financial support: We welcome artists who receive public scholarships, grants or other external funding to support their participation in the residency. However, the residency does not currently provide its own scholarships, grants or financial assistance. Applicants are responsible for securing any external funding they may need.
Application Process
To apply for the 2027 open call, please submit the following documents by email before 30 November 2026.
1. Artist CV or Biography
A short biography or CV outlining your artistic background and relevant experience.
Format: PDF, maximum 2 pages.
2. Portfolio
A selection of previous works that provides an overview of your artistic practice.
Format: One PDF containing a maximum of 10 images, maximum file size 10 MB. Links to your website or online portfolio may also be included.
Your portfolio should clearly demonstrate your previous practical experience working with clay or wood.
3. Project Proposal
A short description of the project or ideas you would like to explore during the residency. Please include your interests, proposed working methods, materials and intended direction.
Format: PDF, maximum 2 pages.
4. Preferred Dates and Duration
Please indicate whether you are applying for a two-week or one-month residency and provide your preferred dates. The expected programme start is around 11 January 2027.
5. Technical Requirements
Briefly describe the materials, tools, equipment and working conditions your project may require. Please mention any specialised processes or technical needs.
Please note: Previous hands-on experience with clay or wood is mandatory. Applications that do not demonstrate practical experience with at least one of these materials will not be considered.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by the residency founders. Selection is based on the quality and relevance of the applicant's artistic practice, previous experience working with clay or wood, the project proposal, its feasibility within the studio's facilities and its connection to the residency's focus on art, craft and material research.
We aim to select artists whose projects would benefit from the working environment and contribute to an atmosphere of experimentation and exchange.
Selected applicants will be contacted by email to discuss availability, project details, technical requirements and practical arrangements. A residency place is confirmed once the dates and conditions have been agreed and the required deposit has been received.
Expectations and Exchange
We encourage an open, respectful and collaborative relationship between resident artists and the studio hosts.
Artists are welcome to share their practice, ideas and working processes through informal conversations and discussions. We value curiosity, mutual respect, independence and the exchange of knowledge.
An open studio or presentation of work in progress may be organised by mutual agreement, depending on the artist's interests and the nature of the project. Participation is entirely optional.
Our priority is to provide a supportive environment in which artists can experiment, develop their ideas and engage with materials and processes at their own pace.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining Art, Craft & Material Research for the 2027 programme, please send your application by email before 30 November 2026.
Application email: turbot@turbotdesign.com
Email subject: Art, Craft & Material Research – Open Call 2027 – [Artist's Name]
For questions about the residency, studio facilities, project suitability or practical arrangements, please contact us by email.
We look forward to learning about your work and welcoming artists interested in exploring new possibilities through art, craft and material research.
ART, CRAFT & MATERIAL RESEARCH
Artist Residency · Poble Sec | Barcelona
Open Call 2027