Open Call: Turkey Artist Residency

What happens when public space becomes a climate commons; shared, shaped and reclaimed through creativity?

We Gather Here Because We Must is an international artist exchange and residency between Get It Done (Manchester) and Aks Creative Hub (Ankara), and supported by the British Council's Connections Through Culture Programme. The programme will pair four emerging artists from Turkey and the UK to explore how simple, playful and low-cost creative interventions can activate public space for climate awareness, resilience and connection.

On opposite ends of Europe, Ankara and Manchester are cities on the edge of transformation: facing climate stress, rapid redevelopment and a shrinking sense of local ownership. Both hold a generation of young creatives who care deeply about their cities, yet often lack the space, support and agency to make change. In response, this project asks a simple question:

How can artists intervene in public space to make the climate crisis visible, build solidarity and spark small, everyday actions?

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We're seeking two emerging artists aged 18-30 based in Greater Manchester to join We Gather Here Because We Must, an international exchange with Aks (Turkey), and supported by the British Council.

This opportunity is for visual artists with a hands-on, participatory practice in public spaces, ideally with experience engaging with nature, sustainability, or environmental themes.

We are looking to work with young artists underrepresented in the arts and public space sector, as those most affected by climate stress, gentrification or shrinking civic rights.

The programme includes an online exchange programme, research & co-design, and an in-person residency in Ankara next year. You will receive a £250 participation fee, and residency costs (international flights, accommodation and some meals) will be covered.