This open call invites artists who engage critically and in-depth with sonic traditions and heritage, seeking new discursive and technological insights.
The lab (from 26 January to 1 February 2026 in Berlin) is designed as an open toolbox for artists exploring how to (re)connect to ‘the traditional’ and is intended to help them navigate their practice outside of (self-)exoticisation and the uneven power dynamics created by mass-cultural and other stereotypes.
The call is open to artists worldwide. Applicants should have an already existing practice that ties into this lab’s focus. Artistic approaches can range from technological or instrument-focused, to compositional, aesthetic, research-oriented or other methodologies. Up to six participants will be selected by the co-hosts Yara Mekawei and Stas Shärifullá.
The lab will take place over the course of six days and will include inputs from other specialists (eg. sociologists, sound scholars, technologists) to be defined based on the participating group. Selected participants will give short 15–20-minute public presentations (performance and/or speaking) on their practice on Tuesday 27 January. Participants will also be asked to participate in a public discussion at the end of the lab.
Participants will be supported with a travel budget of up to 300 EUR per person, accommodation and catering for the duration of the lab, and a festival pass to CTM 2026 events. Visa fees will also be supported for artists, when required.
Following the lab, participants will also have the opportunity to propose new artistic work or research – solo or new collaborations arising from the lab – to the Resynthesising the Traditional artistic team. Up to two new works may be selected for commission and presentation at CTM Festival in Berlin during January/February 2027.
