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The program has an open and supportive structure. Residents may concentrate on one question, explore several parallel directions, test ideas, write, research, prototype, map possibilities, exchange perspectives or simply create conditions for new thinking. The emphasis is on process, development and inquiry rather than production, presentation or finalized outcomes.
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Freedom for creativity, inquiry & imagination
Time, space and freedom to investigate unfamiliar directions, develop ideas and think beyond definitions
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Organised & supportive open structure
Carefully planned and organized program structure to support the participants' residency experience. (Participation to events is voluntary)
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Contemplation and expanded perspective
To improve attention, observation and reflection there are scheduled meditation sessions in the meditation hall each morning and evening. (The sessions are voluntary) |
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Relax in sauna
Starting with an introduction to Finnish sauna culture, residents can use the traditional wood-burning residency sauna on site. There is also a public sauna nearby where residents can experience authentic, non-touristy local sauna culture. |
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Quiet mornings
Quiet mornings support the creative process by offering space and time for deep focus and reflection. In this calm clarity, ideas can surface, expand, and take shape with intuition. |
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Surrounded by nature
Concentrate in your work in a peaceful, natural environment in the middle of the Finnish countryside. Participants are introduced to the surrounding nature in the beginning of the program. |
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Cross-disciplinary group setting
Connect and share with other creatives - or just focus on your own thing - in a relaxed, non-competitive group setting. |
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Included in the residency:
For creative practice:
- studio spaces and facilities — See facilities
- creative tools & equipment — See list
- curated library collection — See book list
- curated multidisciplinary group setting — See who's been here before
- daily meditation schedule in the meditation hall (voluntary)
- group meetings and events (voluntary)
- promotion through our online network
- project pages in Arteles Catalogue
- staff on site to help with practicalities
For everyday life:
- private bedroom incl. towels and bedlinen
(Note: There are working desks also in all the bedrooms.)
- fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities
- wifi in all spaces
- traditional Finnish wood-burning sauna
- meditation / yoga mats, cushions & benches
- two residency cars (with automatic gears) for getting around the region
- pick-up service for arrivals and departures — See how to get here
- orientation & introduction to get you settled in
Outdoor setting in December
- peaceful rural surroundings with forests, fields and lakes nearby
- quiet seasonal atmosphere well suited to focused work, rest and reflection
- short daylight hours and long periods of twilight and darkness
- during the first half of December, conditions vary considerably every year; cold weather is typical, while snow, frost and ice are possible but not guaranteed
Program periods
2-week period: 3-18 December 2026
(Late arrivals / early departures are allowed within the duration of a program period.)
Program fees
There is no application fee.
- Financially supported fee: 1050 € / person
Available in limited numbers for applicants who would otherwise be unable to participate.
- Regular fee: 1450 € / person
- Supporter fee (optional): 1850 € / person
Includes a voluntary contribution that helps Arteles provide financially supported residencies and maintain the program.
- Sustainer fee (optional): 2250 € / person
Includes a more substantial voluntary contribution supporting access, continuity and the long-term development of Arteles residency.
All fees include the registration fee (120 € / person, non-refundable, to be paid only if/when becoming selected).
All participants receive the same program experience regardless of the selected fee level.
All participants are accommodated in a private bedroom.
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Who can apply
Applications are open to emerging and established artists, writers, designers, creatives, technologists, visionaries, innovators and makers, as well as researchers, scientists, philosophers, psychologists and other future-oriented professionals.
We especially welcome applicants whose work engages with e.g. AI, consciousness, systems, speculative futures, psychedelic research, design, science fiction, innovation, human development, post-humanism / -singularity, whether they work independently or across fields.
Guidelines
Application deadline: 3 September 2026 (Timezone UTC-10 at 23:59)
- Submit the online application form before the given deadline.
- We do not require a predefined project proposal in the application, as we understand that in the creative field, your interests, methods, and focus tend to shift and evolve throughout the process.
- A finalized outcome is not required by the end of the program — we understand that there are many phases and aspects of one's creative process, each playing an important role in contributing to the unfolding of outcomes.
- In the selection process, emphasis is given to the applicant's motivation, ideas, approach and alignment with the program's theme.
Eligibility
- Minimum age is 23. Younger adult applicants may be considered if their practice, experience and perspective are especially well aligned with the program’s theme.
- A university degree, minimum BA, exceptions may be made for individuals with relevant experience.
- Applications are individual. Duos should submit separate applications and mention one another in the extra notes.
- Children are not permitted in the residency.
- Pets are not permitted in the residency for health and shared living environment reasons.
- Acknowledgment regarding health and well-being: Due to the nature of activities such as meditation and the absence of distractions, which may bring forth traumatic memories and sensations, it is important to note that this program may not be suitable for individuals coping with severe trauma, addictions, or serious mental disorders.
- Acknowledgment regarding psychedelic research: While the program supports individuals working in and interested in this field, it is important to note that the use of psychedelics is still illegal in Finland and cannot be part of this program.
If you need any help or more information, please contact: info@arteles.org
Residency Terms & Conditions
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| See the list of our curated book collection here |
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