Introduction
Tartu UNESCO City of Literature announces an exclusive writers’ residency program for individuals associated with UNESCO Cities of Literature in the Nordic-Baltic region, including Gothenburg, Kuhmo, Lillehammer, Reykjavik, and Vilnius.
Residency Details
Supported by the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Culture, this program offers two-month residencies for writers residing in or closely connected to the mentioned cities. Residents can choose from the following periods:
- December 2023 – January 2024
- February – March 2024
- June – July 2024
- August – September 2024
- January – February 2025
Application Deadline: October 23, 2023
Results Announcement: November 1st
Creative Contribution
Participants will exchange letters with fellow residents, fostering connections and reviving the art of letter-writing. These letters, written in English or the writer’s native language, will be translated into English and Estonian. After completion, they will be published in a multilingual booklet.
Benefits
- Free accommodation at the Karl Ristikivi residency apartment
- Stipend of €2000 for the residency period
- €500 commission for writing the letter
- Reimbursement of travel costs (up to €250)
- Monthly bus pass for Tartu public transport
- Dedicated contact person for arrangements and local literary engagement
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, writers should meet the following criteria:
- Upper intermediate level of spoken English or Estonian
- At least one published book, screenplay, or theatre script
- Interest in Estonian culture and literature
- Willingness to engage in local literary activities
- Commitment to write a letter about the residency experience for inclusion in the booklet
- Connection to a UNESCO City of Literature in the Nordic-Baltic region
- Cannot be residing in Estonia during the application
- Must have a permanent address in one of the Nordic or Baltic countries
Required Documents
- [Online application form](APPLICATION FORM LINK)
- Fragment (up to 5 pages) of a published text (in Estonian or English) sent to eks@kirjandus.ee, including your full name as in the application form.
Selection Process
A committee of four representatives from the Estonian Literary Society, Tartu Department of the Estonian Writers Union, Estonian Literary Museum, and the Karl Ristikivi Society will select residents.
About Tartu City of Literature
Tartu, Estonia’s intellectual capital, boasts a vibrant literary scene, hosting numerous festivals and events. Designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2015, Tartu offers a creative and inspiring environment for writers. The residency programs are coordinated by the Estonian Literary Society in partnership with various literary institutions.
The Residency Apartment
Residents will stay at the Karl Ristikivi Museum, preserving the historical ambiance while offering modern amenities. The apartment includes a bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathroom, and an exhibition room dedicated to Ristikivi.
FAQs
Q: Is the residency schedule strict?
A: While around 2 months is expected, some flexibility is allowed in scheduling.
Q: Can I travel to other places in Estonia during my residency?
A: Exploring the country is encouraged, but we can’t cover travel costs to other places.
Q: Can I bring my partner or family?
A: The apartment accommodates families, but travel expenses are covered only for residents.
Q: Can I go home for holidays during the December 2023-January 2024 period?
A: Yes, you can.
This residency program is made possible through funding from the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Culture.
For additional information, contact Marja Unt at eks@kirjandus.ee.
