Щоб прочитати вимоги та критерії стипендій українською мовою, натисніть тут.
[To read the fellowship requirements and criteria in Ukrainian, click here.]

ELIA, the globally connected European network of higher arts institutions, in collaboration with the Abakanowicz Arts and Culture Charitable Foundation (AACCF), is pleased to announce the 2023 cycle of the UAx Abakanowicz Fellowship programme. This programme is an integral part of the UAx Platform, a transformative initiative that fosters direct support for Ukrainian art students through reciprocal mentoring, knowledge exchange, and capacity building of their institutions. Ukrainian art academies and universities are partnered with art institutions across Europe, creating a powerful Sister School network.

The UAx Platform is founded on the core principle of the UAx Abakanowicz Fellowship, a programme that embodies the spirit and values of Magdalena Abakanowicz. This initiative aims to empower war-affected artists to carry out one of their most important responsibilities - creating work in the face of oppression. Magdalena Abakanowicz's own life story serves as a testament to the power of this mission. She, alongside numerous artists from her generation, experienced forced relocations, displacements, invasions, occupations, and endured political and pedagogical oppressions. Preserving the narratives of extraordinary individuals like Magdalena Abakanowicz ensures that the next generation of artists, including the Abakanowicz Fellows, are inspired and emboldened to carry on with their artistic endeavors, especially in times of struggle. To delve deeper into the life and work of this remarkable artist, click here.

Timeline

• UAx Abakanowicz Fellowship Launch: 26 May 2023
• Deadline for Submissions: 25 June 2023
• Selection results announced: 24 July 2023

Objective of the UAx Abakanowicz Fellowship

The primary objective of the UAx Abakanowicz Fellowship programme is to provide comprehensive support to art students from five Ukrainian Sister Schools participating in the project in 2023. The fellowship encompasses three key components: UAx Bursaries, UAx Mentoring, and UAx Community.

1. UAx Bursaries
Selected students, known as Abakanowicz Fellows, will receive emergency UAx Bursaries of up to €2,000 per student for the academic year 2023-2024. These funds will directly address their urgent financial needs and enable them to continue their studies in Ukrainian arts degree programmes.

2. UAx Mentoring Programme
The UAx Mentoring programme offers an opportunity for Ukrainian art students to receive reciprocal guidance and support from international mentors representing non-Ukrainian Sister Schools from across Europe. The mentors and students will participate in a reciprocal mentoring relationship, fostering mutual learning and enabling the exchange of insights, knowledge, skills, and diverse perspectives. This programme goes beyond traditional mentorship by providing a platform for students to expand their artistic influence and establish international connections within the arts sector. The reciprocal mentoring relationship is tailored to the individual student's needs and aspirations, fostering a personalized and meaningful experience.

3. UAx Community
The UAx Community offers a dynamic and enriching environment that nurtures artistic growth and provides numerous opportunities for learning and collaboration. Through the UAx Platform, students gain access to an extensive network of art institutions, both within Ukraine and across Europe, fostering cultural exchange and exposing them to diverse perspectives. The community provides valuable resources, programmes, and mentoring opportunities that support students in honing their artistic skills, exploring new horizons, and building a strong foundation for their future careers. Moreover, the UAx Community serves as a supportive and vibrant network of like-minded individuals, creating a space for shared experiences, mutual inspiration, and lifelong connections.

The application process is now closed! We will soon notify the applicants with more information on the selction results.