Planetary Transitions 2026: Potsdam Artist Residency (f_m_x)
GFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung
Planetary Transitions 2026: Potsdam Artist Residency (f_m_x)
Reference Number 10920
The , the , and the are issuing a joint call for applications for international artists who wish to develop work that explores the intersection between art and sustainability during a fellowship in Potsdam, Germany. The programme seeks to foster exchange between the arts, academia, politics, and civil society. We encourage the participation of artists with critical voices and perspectives that are absent in German and Western European discussions on sustainability.We especially welcome applications from candidates whose interests dovetail with our research activities in the areas of: air quality, climate change, consumption, democracy, digitalisation, energy, just transition, mindsets, mobility, rights of nature, risks and hazards, citizen engagement, and/or sustainability challenges faced in the Arctic, European cities and regions (e.g., Brandenburg/Berlin), Latin America (particularly the Amazon region), Southern (in particular the Himalaya region) and Eastern Asia, or the Oceans.
The successful applicant will join the RIFS Fellow Programme, which frequently hosts artists as well as scientists and practitioners from business and civil society. The fellowship spans a period of at least four and ideally up to six months, starting in mid-2026. Fellows will receive a monthly stipend of 2,500 Euro, plus a lump sum for travel expenses (return journey to Potsdam from your current country of residence), and up to 5,000 Euros for housing support. In addition, we provide support on various legal requirements such as visa applications.
This call for applications is open to artists active in any field – from the visual arts to filmmaking, the performing arts, literature, music, and beyond. While we value artistic experience, we recognize that exceptional talent and creativity can often transcend traditional benchmarks. We encourage individuals with a passion for their craft and a strong portfolio to apply. We welcome joint applications by artistic collectives, but our financial resources (see above) are limited. Some proficiency in the English language, as well as interest in research on sustainability, climate justice and/or planetary futures, are preconditions for a successful residency.
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About the employer
GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences
GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences
The GFZ is Germany’s national center for research on the solid Earth. We advance the understanding of dynamic processes to address global challenges—ranging from mitigating the impacts of natural hazards and preserving our environment in times of global change to the responsible management of natural resources. We are a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany’s largest scientific organization. With approximately 1,200 staff and around 500 visiting researchers, we contribute to the Helmholtz research area “Earth and Environment,” combining cutting-edge research with societal relevance and international collaboration.
Our work integrates multidisciplinary studies of Earth’s systems and leverages advanced technologies and infrastructures to explore solutions and bring our knowledge into society. We do all this in line with our vision: “In tune with the Earth—to preserve it as a habitable planet.”
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