Open Call: Craftwork4.0All Residency in Bulgaria (Plovdiv, March-April 2027)

Craftwork4.0All is pleased to announce an open call for a unique international residency programme taking place in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, from 22 March to 4 April 2027. Hosted by OECON GROUP Bulgaria in collaboration with renowned Bulgarian couture designer Ivan Donev, the residency offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging textile artists, fashion designers, and craft practitioners to deepen their skills through an intensive two-week creative experience.

Theme: Reinterpreting Shevitsa

The residency explores the theme “Reinterpreting Shevitsa: Connecting Traditional Bulgarian Textile Motifs with Contemporary Fashion and Couture Design.” Participants will engage with the rich heritage of Bulgarian embroidery and textile traditions while experimenting with contemporary design approaches under the mentorship of Ivan Donev.

Throughout the programme, participants will develop their own individual artistic projects, drawing inspiration from traditional motifs and transforming them into innovative contemporary creations.

What the Residency Offers

The programme combines:

• Hands-on textile craftsmanship
• Couture design methodologies
• Creative experimentation and innovation
• Cross-cultural collaboration
• Professional mentoring
• Direct exposure to the fashion and textile industry through participation in TEXTAILOR Expo

A highlight of the residency will be the presentation of participants’ final works during the closing runway show of TEXTAILOR Expo, one of Bulgaria’s leading fashion and textile events, taking place in Plovdiv from 2 to 4 April 2027.

Who Can Apply?

We are looking for five emerging artists and designers who have prior experience in:

• Textile arts
• Fashion design
• Craft-based creative practices

Please note that this is an individual residency programme. Participants will develop and present their own projects and will not work in pairs or groups.

Financial Support

OECON GROUP Bulgaria will provide:

• Accommodation
• Travel costs
• Meals during the residency

Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel and health insurance.

Application Deadline

26 October 2026

How to Apply

Interested candidates can submit their application through the following form: https://forms.gle/gFaPFKXmcS7uhcwG7

For more information about residency mentor Ivan Donev, visit: https://ivandonev.com/

Join us in Plovdiv for an inspiring journey that connects traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion, celebrates cultural heritage, and creates new opportunities for artistic innovation across Europe.