Bridging the A-I-R

Bridging the A-I-R (BtAIR) is a large-scale European cultural project aimed at addressing structural imbalances in the field of artist residencies. The project is based on the belief that sustainable cultural mobility in Europe depends on systematic support for residency hosts, whose work, expertise, and infrastructure are often overlooked, even though they are essential to the cultural ecosystem.

Main goals of the project

Building capacity

Improving the skills and standards of organizations and individuals who organize residencies.

Sharing experiences

Connecting local contexts with the broader European framework through mutual learning.

Developing sustainable models

Testing transferable residency formats that prioritize care, relationship building, regeneration, and balance between the center and the periphery.

Decentralizing culture

Supporting residency infrastructure outside major metropolitan areas, helping to level the playing field in regionally disadvantaged areas.

Key activities and outputs

The project is scheduled to run for 48 months and consists of five key work packages:

12 pilot residencies

Testing new residency models (e.g., community, ecological, or research) in six European countries.

Digital infrastructure

Creation of Slovak and Hungarian versions of the Czech platform artinres.cz and launch of a new European hub btair.eu, which will serve as a central library of methodologies, open calls, and good practices.

Methodologies and education

Creation of open manuals, case studies, and mentoring frameworks for existing and emerging residency centers.

International symposium and workshops

Professional events focused on networking, fair conditions in culture, and planning future cooperation.

Strategic impact

Development of a policy brief offering recommendations for supporting residential infrastructure at the national and European levels.

International partnership

The project is led by the Czech organization Nová síť in cooperation with partners from six countries:

• Slovakia: Anténa – sieť pre nezávislú kultúru

• Italy: IDRA Teatro

• Spain: Teatro de lo Inestable

• Germany: Schloss Bröllin

• Hungary: METTRIN Arts Center (Swing Jazz Cultural Foundation)

The project is also supported by strategic partners such as the Czech Centers and the European Capital of Culture Trenčín 2026 project.

Value Framework

BtAIR responds to current social challenges such as pressure to perform, time poverty, social polarization, and the climate crisis. It promotes the principles of deceleration, inclusion, equality, and environmental responsibility within the cultural sector.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or [name of the granting authority]. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.