INTERNATIONAL WRITERS’ AND TRANSLATORS’ HOUSE IN VENTSPILS | LATVIA

The aim of the House is to create a multifunctional international writer’s and translator’s centre, which promotes the development of literature, encourages cross-cultural dialogue and introduces the Latvian literary process to international circulation; to facilitate the decentralisation of the development of literature in Latvia by fostering a suitable cultural environment in regional Latvia. The House invites professional writers and translators for a 1-month literary residency all around the year.

 

WHO
The residency is aimed at Latvian authors, Latvian literary translators, foreign fiction translators, foreign authors, Latvian and foreign researchers whose research work is related to literature. The applicant must have published at least one book of fiction (be it prose, poetry or drama) in their language. There are no restrictions regarding age, race, gender or nationality.

 

WHAT IS OFFERED
Residents can apply for a grant of 320 EUR for a 4 weeks long stay. Each resident will stay in their own separate apartment with a common kitchen and dining room along with other residents. There are 7 rooms so at one time we have 7 residents. 2 rooms are accommodated for couples. In every room is internet and a WiFi, electric kettle and bed sheets, towels etc. Separate bath rooms. A laundry, sauna and some bicycles can be used. Everybody is welcome to bring books for the House library.

 

WHAT IS EXPECTED
The resident is encouraged to show an interest, and partake, in local literary events and other related activities—which will be coordinated according to other local events as well as the needs and interests of the resident.
Residents are required to take care of medical insurance and are responsible for their meals and household.
Additional guests can be hosted with additional costs.

 

LOCATION
The residency is located in the premises of the former town hall belonging to the city of Ventspils, built in the 18th century and located in the cultural and historical centre of Ventspils. The building has seven residential premises with internet connection, reading room, kitchen, parking facilities, small garden, sauna and recreation areas. The centre can host nine residents at one time. There are two twin residential rooms. Two of the residential rooms have been adapted for people with special needs.
Ventspils is one of the oldest cities of Latvia. The Castle of the Livonian Order Knights, first mentioned in historical documents in 1290, is considered to be the first building in the present territory of Ventspils.

 

HOW TO APPLY
Applying is done digitally in Latvian or in English.
Use the online application form on the website: https://www.ventspilshouse.lv/applicationform
or
Send your application (in a .doc or .pdf file) to ventspilshouse@ventspilshouse.lv.

 

Contact via this email ieva.balode@ventspilshouse.lv or call +371 26449426 in case of any questions.

 

More information can be found HERE 

 

A draft of the contract is available upon request.
Results will be announced no later than two months after the application was received by the House.
Residencies are supported by the State Culture Capital Foundation and Ministry of Culture of Latvia.