2026-opencall-for-artists-deatils-&-faq

Frequently Asked Questions & Practicalities


The Residency – How Does It Work?

The Camp: Living in the Forest

During the festival (June 10–21), we provide tents and simple accommodations. The camp is located centrally on the grounds, with views into the green. It’s not luxurious – but it’s functional and sustainably designed.

What’s included:

  • Tent site or simple hut (free)
  • Shared kitchen with regional food
  • Fire & community space
  • Water & sanitation

Your Rhythm in the Camp:

After breakfast, artists head out and work on their art — alone or together. Midday you provide yourselves with snacks & drinks, focus on your work. Evenings everyone gathers – the kitchen prepares dinner for all.

Who’s in the Camp?

Artists from different countries and disciplines. Not everyone works together – but everyone benefits from shared presence. New friendships form, sometimes spontaneous collaborations, often just exchange over coffee & fire.


Application – What’s Needed?

The form is short & precise. We need:

Basic Info

  • Name, email, website/portfolio
  • Short biography (3–5 sentences)
  • Your artistic practice (discipline, medium, focus)

Your Project for Forestival

  • Project description (one page is enough)
  • Material & technique (what do you need?)
  • Size & setup (how large is your work?)
  • Do you need power/water? Special requirements?

Your Availability

  • How many days can you be on-site?
  • Interested in the residency? (Yes/No)
  • Want to give a workshop/talk?

That’s it.

This isn’t about perfect texts or renderings. We want to understand what you’re working on and why the forest interests you – or why it doesn’t.


Selection Process – How Do We Decide?

We look at:

  • Your artistic position: Is it clear what you’re working on? Do you have a stance?
  • Your work & the place: Can it be realized in the forest? Does it fit spatially?
  • Diversity: We want different styles, media, countries, genders
  • Experience: Previous artists get priority for slots

Timeline:

  • April 12, 2026: Deadline Opencall
  • May 1, 2026: All decisions sent
  • May 17: Registration deadline for accepted artists

Logistics – What Do You Bring?

The Journey

  • You organize & pay for your travel to Lahnstein
  • Car is useful (materials, setup)
  • Parking available

Your Material

  • Everything you need for your work, you bring
  • We have no comprehensive material library
  • But: Local wood, metal & building supply sources are reachable

Setup & Breakdown

  • You plan your installation
  • We help with heavy transport (tractor, hands)
  • Breakdown: You clean up, landscape stays clean

Costs – What Does It Cost?

For you: Free

  • ✅ Participation & exhibition
  • ✅ Residency accommodation (if chosen)
  • ✅ Shared kitchen & meals

You pay:

  • 🚗 Travel & parking
  • 🛠 Materials & tools
  • 🏨 Accommodation (if not in camp)

Selling Your Work: If your work is sold – whether by you or through our Art Shop – we take 20% for Forestival. You keep 80%.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m from abroad – can artists participate remotely? A: No. Forestival thrives on physical presence. Your body, your work, your voice – everything must be on-site. At least 3–5 days should be minimum.

Q: My work is very large/requires special tech – is that possible? A: Possible, but case-by-case basis. Write the requirements into the form. We’ll clarify if it’s feasible.

Q: I’ve never exhibited – am I welcome? A: Yes. Professional experience is not required – but a clear artistic question should be recognizable. A portfolio (including student work) is important.

Q: Can I take my work with me/sell it? A: Yes. Your work remains your property. You decide if it stays or goes home. The Art Shop offers sales opportunities.

Q: What about liability & insurance? A: Forestry liability is covered. You’re responsible for your work. Damage from weather/accidents is your risk. Talk to us for special questions.

Q: Can I collaborate with other artists? A: Yes – if you coordinate beforehand. In the form you can name a co-artist.

Q: I’m interested in the residency but unsure A: Mention it in the form. If accepted, we can discuss details.

Q: What about children/family? A: The camp is not primarily designed for families. But if you want to come with child/family, talk to us – we’ll find solutions.


Contact & Support

Questions about application? artist-request@forestival.de

After acceptance? We send you a welcome email with checklist, directions, contact with other artists.


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