Art Recidency Preparation in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan (project of bArtCenter)

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

B’Art Contemporary is hosting an open call for Swiss volunteers interested in art residency preparation in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

Dear Swiss Art Enthusiasts,

We are thrilled to extend an open call to Swiss volunteers who are passionate about the arts and eager to gain valuable professional experience in assisting with the preparation for an upcoming Art Residency program in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. This opportunity spans from June to November 2024, offering a dynamic and immersive experience in the heart of Central Asia’s vibrant art scene.

MAIN TASKS AND POSSIBILITIES:

As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to engage with various aspects of art residency preparation, honing skills in management, promotion, design and web design, video editing, curation, writing, photography, painting, sculpture, craftsmanship, and any other creative or social expertise you bring to the table. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your journey in the art world, this experience promises growth, collaboration, and cultural exchange.

The commitment for volunteers is flexible, ranging from a minimum of two months to a maximum of six months. This allows you to tailor your involvement based on your availability and interests. By participating in this initiative, you will not only contribute to the success of the residency but also broaden your horizons, forge new connections, and expand your professional portfolio.

Volunteers will work at the B’Art office in Bishkek. Those who excel will have the opportunity, along with the organizers, to visit upcoming project sites in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

We encourage all interested individuals to apply and join us in shaping a meaningful and impactful art experience in Central Asia. Please note that spaces are limited.

CONDITIONS OF PARTICIPATION:

Minimum age: 18 years
Composition of a report on your engagement on returning
Interest in the respective region and in the work of SCI Switzerland
Participation in a preparatory seminar
Pass on your own experiences to new volunteers after the assignment

SCI SWITZERLAND AND B’ART CENTER OFFER:

Assistance by SCI Switzerland before departure, during the assignment and after returning
Invitation letter for visas if needed
Preparation and evaluation of the assignment
One-year membership with SCI Switzerland (incl. SCI newsletter, reduction of seminar fees, etc.)

COSTS:

Participation fee: CHF 690.- (There is a reduction of CHF 30.- for those with no or little income)
Local administration fee (Arrival transfer incl.): USD 150
1-month language course (when needed): USD 250 – 400
1-month home stay (2 meals per day included): USD 600
Travel expenses (you will have to organize the trip yourself)
Costs for visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, etc.

CANCELLATION POLICY:

If you cancel a program you must in any case pay 60% of the participation fee. If we receive the cancellation later than three weeks before the start of the program, or in the event of a no-show or early termination of the program, you will pay the entire registration fee.

Why pay for volunteering?

SCI Switzerland is a certified non-profit organisation. In order to organise and arrange volunteer placements, as well as for the preparation and follow-up of volunteers and camp coordinators, we rely on participation fees, membership fees and donations. The participation fee covers only a small part of the real expenses. SCI Switzerland is mainly supported by its long-standing members and donors, as well as by state funding. Furthermore, SCI Switzerland realises the workcamps mainly with the help of the local project partners.

REGISTRATION:

Read the terms and conditions carefully (above).
Inquire about travel expenses, visa requirements and health matters.
If you have any questions, please contact Nathalia: nathalia.zimmermann@scich.org / 031 381 46 20.
Request the registration form, fill it out carefully and send it to Nathalia. Your registration is final, cancellation fees will apply.

WHAT HAPPENS THEN?

We will check your registration carefully. If you meet the conditions for participation, we will forward your registration to our local partner organization. This will decide on the inclusion in the project. As soon as we have received an answer, we will inform you and discuss the next steps with you.

This project is part of the «Eastwards» programme. Eastwards offers projects in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, not only long-term volunteering, but also Russian language courses, stays with host families, cultural trips for groups and internships.