Vilnius UNESCO City of Literature offers a four-week creative residency in the heart of Užupis, its iconic arts district, for writers, illustrators and literary translators in Autumn 2024.

The Vilnius Literary Residency is a program dedicated to writers, illustrators and literary translators from all over the world, with a focus on the UNESCO Cities of Literature. The purpose of the residency program is to provide opportunity for writers, illustrators, and translators to stay in Vilnius for a four-week period and engage in creative work. All selected participants have their travel expenses covered, be provided accommodation in Vilnius’ iconic Užupis arts district, and granted a scholarship of 500 EUR. Participants will be asked to participate in two meetings with the local community.

The residency is located in the heart of Vilnius, adjacent to the old town in the iconic Užupis arts district, at the UMI (Užupis Arts Incubator) on the shore of the historical Vilnia River, and just 500 meters away from Vilnius Literary House – the office of the Vilnius UNESCO City of Literature (Please note that there are steep stairs in the two-story studio).

To apply:

• Eligible applicants are writers, illustrators, and literary translators from the Lithuanian language from the UNESCO Cities of Literature or strong connection to one of the Cities.
• The applicant must send a short motivational letter.
• The applicant is also kindly asked to provide a short bio and bibliography with the letter.

Please send the required documents to marija@vilniusliterature.lt by 1st of July. All applicants will be informed about the selection results by email no later than 15 July.

Dates of the Residencies:

15 September – 13 October
15 October – 13 November

Travel and accommodation:

Organisers will fully cover accommodation costs for the selected participants and travel to/from the residency location.

Scholarship:

Each selected participant will be granted a 500 EUR scholarship for personal expenses during the residency period.