Resynthesising the Traditional

About the Open Call

The Artistic Research Lab, titled "Resynthesising the Traditional," is designed as an open toolbox for artists exploring how to (re)connect to "the traditional." It intends to help participants navigate their practice outside of (self-)exoticisation and the uneven power dynamics created by mass-cultural and other stereotypes. Evoking resynthesis – a processing method in computer music that analyzes sounds to extract their fundamental components – as a guiding metaphor, the lab invites participants to confront conservative views of culture as something frozen, solidified, and generally untouchable. By recognising the "traditional" as a dynamic phenomenon and treating it with proper care and respect, the lab will offer a triangular approach to "resynthesis" presenting it as a tool for the aesthetic, technological, and political transformation of cultures and societies. The first two aspects encourage experimentation with various technologies and methods of music and sound production, composition, and performance, reflecting on how this can unlock emancipatory potential. The sociopolitical approach opposes exoticisation, appropriation, tokenism, and the colonial gaze, inviting participants to consider how their practice can drive political imagination, avoiding the simplification of cultures into stereotypes. The lab will also focus on issues of distance and belonging, exploring artistic and research strategies to engage with tradition for those disconnected from their roots, with its framework bound by critical methodologies rather than specific geographical locations.

What is Offered

Participants will receive 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 if required, and letters of invitation can be provided. Following the lab, participants have the opportunity to propose new artistic work or research for potential commission and presentation at CTM Festival in Berlin during January/February 2027.

Requirements

The call is open to artists worldwide. Applicants should have an already existing practice that ties into the lab’s focus on (re)connecting with traditional ideas and sounds through a contemporary lens, and clear ideas or questions on next steps for expanding this practice. Artistic approaches can be technological, instrument-focused, compositional, aesthetic, research-oriented, or other methodologies. A working knowledge of English is recommended. This open call is for solo artists/projects only.

How to Apply

Applicants must demonstrate an already existing practice combining traditional sonic ideas with contemporary forms and have a clear idea of the guidance or research they'd like to undertake. The call is for solo artists/projects only. The application form requires personal details, a short bio, URLs/socials, and responses to questions about their interest in the lab theme, goals, expectations, and availability for the lab's duration.