Join the ART LABS Residency at Espronceda – Exploring Upcycling Found Objects

E-Art’s ART LABS initiative invites artists based in Barcelona to apply for a unique creative residency focused on upcycling found objects, sustainability, and environmental justice.

This residency offers an inspiring opportunity for 10 selected artists to engage in collaborative research, hands-on creation, and artistic experimentation — culminating in a group exhibition at Espronceda Institute of Art & Culture.

Key Dates & Format

Residency Sessions:

July: 9, 10, 17, 30
August: 1 day (TBD)

Final Exhibition:

Set-up: From 15 to 19 September 2025
Opening: 19 September 2025

Location: Espronceda, Institute of Art & Culture, Barcelona

Who Can Apply?

- Artists residing in Barcelona
- Interested in working with found objects
- Committed to environmental themes, collaboration, and sustainable practices
- Available on the above-mentioned dates

How to Apply:

Send an email to info@espronceda.net with the subject:
“Application – ART LABS Residency 2025 – [Your Full Name]”

Please attach the following documents (PDF format):

Motivational Letter (max. 1 page)
Share why this residency aligns with your practice and interests.
CV / Artist Resume
Portfolio (5–10 images with captions, or a link to your digital portfolio/website)

Program Structure

JULY – Introduction Phase (9 and 10.07.2025)
An immersive dive into the history and practice of upcycling. We’ll explore connections to assemblage, ready-mades, and environmental art through methodologies, techniques, and case studies.

JULY – Research & Prototyping (17 and 30.07.2025)
Artists will develop early concepts and sustainable prototypes. The focus will be on environmental protection, with special relevance to Catalunya, exploring topics like climate change, ecology, and local activism.

AUGUST – Midpoint Review (1 day or online meeting, date TBD)
A mentoring session for feedback and direction refinement. Artists will refine concepts and ensure alignment with sustainability goals.

SEPTEMBER – Final Production & Exhibition (15-19.09.2025)

- Finalization of the artworks with mentor support
- Curation of the artworks within Espronceda’s gallery
- Public group exhibition featuring 8 pieces in total

Why Apply?

This residency offers:

Artistic growth within a sustainability-driven framework
Guidance from experienced mentors
The opportunity to exhibit in a professional contemporary art space
A collaborative experience with fellow local artists

To express your interest or ask any questions, please contact us at info@espronceda.net. We can’t wait to hear from you — and to share this exciting journey with our future residents!

About the Project

E-ART (Artists Influence – Support the Co-Creation, Circulation, and Promotion of Sustainability and Climate Change in Europe) is an EU-funded (Erasmus+) initiative involving a consortium of partners working together to empower artists by enhancing their professional and personal development. The project equips artists with new skills, knowledge, and tools to thrive in the labor market while promoting eco-friendly and sustainable artistic practices.

As part of this international consortium (Intercult (Sweden), OECON Group (Bulgaria), CUBE (Greece), Materahub (Italy), I&F Instruction and Formation (Ireland)), at ESPRONCEDA – Institute of Art & Culture (Spain), we are committed to fostering sustainable artistic development.

E-ART aims to: