Open Call: Season 3 – 2025/2026

Application deadline: June 22nd, 2025

The Failaka Institute for Knowledge and Arts Research (FIKAR) is pleased to announce its Open Call for Season 3 (2025–2026).

This call invites proposals from artists and researchers across all disciplines whose practices engage meaningfully with the cultural, historical, ecological, or symbolic landscape of Failaka Island.

FIKAR is rooted in a commitment to knowledge production and artistic experimentation. It welcomes thinkers, artists, and makers whose work celebrates, protects, and reimagines the history and living cultures of the island.

FIKAR will award:

  • 6 residency spots (for individuals or collectives)

  • 2 grants of up to 3,000 KWD each in the following categories:

    • Publication Grant

    • Failaka audioguide Grant

Criteria

This call is open to Kuwaiti and international applicants aged 21 or older who meet the following conditions:

1

Have a professional or academic practice in the fields of visual arts, crafts, design, music, dance, cinema, literature, or related research-based disciplines.

2

Are eligible to obtain a visa to Kuwait

(details available here)

3

Propose a project that directly relates to Failaka Island.

Application Requirements

All applicants (for both residencies and grants) must submit:

1 - A clear project proposal outlining objectives, methodology, and potential outcomes or public engagement.

2 - A biography of the applicant(s).

3 - For artists: a portfolio of recent work (10 pages maximum)

4 - For researchers: an academic or professional CV (3 pages maximum)

5 - Indication of preferred dates for the residency period between October 1, 2025 and May 1, 2026

Additional requirements for grant applicants:.

  • A detailed budget indicating the requested amount and proposed allocation of funds.

  • For other additional requirements, please check below in the dedicated grant sections.

Important dates

Application Deadline: June 22, 2025, by 11:59 PM (Kuwait time)
Pre-Selection Interviews: End of June 2025
Final Notification of Results: First week of July 2025
Residency Period Begins: October 1, 2025
Residency Period Ends: May 1, 2026

Residency Support

Residents will receive the following:

  • Round-trip boat transport between Kuwait

  • and Failaka Island

  • Accommodation at Dar FIKAR

  • Dedicated studio space

  • Two meals per day

  • Access to all residency facilities

  • Ongoing mentorship and support from the FIKAR team

Please note: International travel to and from Kuwait is not covered by FIKAR. Applicants are encouraged to seek additional funding from third-party sources for flights and related costs.

Grant Support

In addition, grantees will receive a production grant of up to 3,000 KWD, depending on the scope and budget of the proposed project.

All funded projects must be completed within two years from the start date of the grant.

Applications