Open Call for Artists
Preservation & Memory
Deadline: None
Residency Dates: Open
Location: R. Ocidental do Convento 19 Loja 3, 2900-514 Setúbal
Studio Bacalhau is an artist-run space in Setúbal that brings together art, material practice, and ecological thinking. Rooted between land and sea, the studio operates as both a site for inquiry and a working space for artists.
We offer two ways to engage with the studio:
Residency (curated) and Studio Access (paid working space).
Residency (Curated Program)
At Studio Bacalhau, we approach Bacalhau not only as an iconic salted cod of Portugal, but as a symbol of preservation, longing, ritual, migration, and memory.
Our theme, “Salty”, invites artists to engage with processes of drying, curing, holding, and remembering, whether personal or collective.
We are particularly interested in works that explore:
– Salt as a material, metaphor, or ritual
– Memory work (archives, recipes, oral histories)
– Migration, diaspora, and dislocation
– Food as resistance or cultural survival
– The poetics of preservation and decay
This is a curated and selective program.
Residencies may include supported or collaborative formats depending on the project.
Studio Bacalhau does not currently offer fully funded residencies.
Who Should Apply
We welcome artists from all disciplines; visual art, writing, performance, sound, food practice, textile, ecological design, or hybrid work.
You do not need to work literally with Bacalhau or fish, rather, we’re looking for sensitive interpretations and abstract connections to the theme. Artists who are process-driven, open to slowness, experimentation, or site-based work are especially encouraged to apply.
Studio Bacalhau centers de-colonial, and ecological perspectives.
What we Offer
• Shared studio space at Studio Bacalhau, Setúbal
• Optional public presentation (open studio, talk, workshop, meal, etc.)
• Curatorial dialogue and documentation support
• A place to be in quiet process, salt air, and slow unfolding
Work From Studio Bacalhau (Paid Access)
For artists looking for time, space, and focus in Setúbal, Studio Bacalhau offers short-term and flexible access to the studio.
This is not a residency.
This is a working arrangement.
Options
Daily Access
€25 – €40
4–6 hours of studio use
Ideal for visiting artists or short-term work
Weekly Access
€120 – €180
Flexible hours across the week
Small storage possible
Monthly Studio Spot
€250 – €400
Shared studio environment
Best suited for artists based locally
Workshop Hosting
Artists can also use the space to host workshops.
Option 1 – Flat Fee
€80 – €150 per session
Option 2 – Revenue Share
70% artist / 30% studio
Studio Bacalhau can support with visibility, local outreach, and audience building.
What the Space Offers:
– Shared studio environment in Setúbal
– Tables, chairs, and flexible layout
– Natural light
– Access to water
– Toilet facilities
– Intimate, small-group setting (6–12 people ideal)
Add-ons (Optional)
– Documentation (photo/video)
– Material sourcing (fish, cork, local elements)
– Co-hosting or facilitation support
– Promotion through Studio Bacalhau
How to Engage
For Residency:
Send a proposal including your idea, timeline, and practice.
For Studio Access:
Message directly to check availability and dates.
Email: studio.bacalhau@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +351 924 897 875