Context AiR Plovdiv

The program meis initiated and funded by the Culture Department of the Municipality of the second biggest city in Bulgaria – Plovdiv. The residency program aims at the production of new artistic works in public space, following artists’ interactions with the city and inspired by its distinctive character. The city of Plovdiv – with its eclectic mix of ancient and medieval history, socialist heritage, and modern reality, the experience it carries of a European Capital of Culture in 2019, home to a variety of ethnic and religious groups, and an urban-nature-scape that follows a charming river and a few hills – is the central thematic focus of the programme. Programme goals: To realize innovative ideas in the scope of the contemporary art and culture trends and in direct interaction with the givens of the local context and with the local communities; To help renew the perception of the cultural identity of Plovdiv by creating iconic works; To generate events and manifestations that help to develop audiences, attract tourists to the city, as well as for development, education and integration of different communities through the means of culture; To provide opportunities for artistic exchange and partnerships with local organizations and institutions. The programme offers a full scholarship, covering living expenses and production costs, as well as providing living & working space in a shared residential house – the Nishaniyan House. Programme curator since 2022 is Svetlana Kuyumdzhieva – an art historian, critic, and curator with 20 years of experience in private and public cultural institutions in Bulgaria. Programme coordinator for CONTEXT AiR is Vanya Grozdanova – an art manager and curator experienced within the diverse local independent scene.