SISS Open Call: Emerging Talents in A/V art

Overview

The SISS Open Call invites emerging artists and collectives under 35 to submit completed works exploring the relationship between sound and image. This international call features four categories: Experimental Visionaries, Screened Sound, Young Pioneers and a commission for AFAM students. One winner per category will be awarded €2,500, with public presentations in Lecce or Trento, Italy by 20 March 2026.

Award

Winners of the three main categories will receive €2,500 gross (includes travel and accommodation for events in Lecce and Trento). Winning works will be featured in official public performances held by March 20, 2026 in Lecce or Trento, Italy. The award is for the entire collective (if applicable).

Selected AFAM applicants will receive a commission for an original work (silent film provided by the Cineteca di Bologna) valued at €2,500 gross. Tutorship will be provided by faculty members from the Conservatories of Lecce and Trento as a support for the production of the new work. A short residency at one of the partner locations (Lecce or Trento) is included. Selected works will be presented at public events organized by the conservatories.

Jury

The jury panel, consisting of distinguished artists and professionals, will be announced on the official website of the call and through dedicated communication channels.

Important Dates

For all categories:

1. Call opens: June 15 2025
2. Submission deadline: August 31, 2025 (11:59 PM CET)
3. Results announced: Early October 2025
4. Public presentation: by March 20, 2026 in Lecce or Trento, Italy

For the AFAM Commission only:

1. Delivery of new work: by December 1, 2025
2. Presentation: in Lecce or Trento as a premiere

Who can apply?

For Categories A, B, C:

Individual artists under 35 years of age (at the time of the submission deadline).

Collectives are eligible (the average age of the members must not exceed 35).

Open to all nationalities.

Each candidate/collective can submit only one work in one category.

For Category D (AFAM Commission):

Students or recent graduates from AFAM institutions (enrolled or residing in Italy) under 35 at the submission deadline, with proof of enrollment or degree.

Collectives with at least 50% of members holding AFAM credentials (enrolled or residing in Italy) under 35 at the submission deadline.

Only one application per candidate or collective is allowed.

FAQ / Common Questions: https://sissproject.eu/call-for-works/#faq

More details:  https://sissproject.eu/call-for-works/#siss_open_call