Tartu City of Literature spring 2026 residency
Tartu is the second largest town of Estonia, but is widely considered its intellectual capital – vitally significant in developing the educational system, culture, science and literature in the Estonian language. In 2015, Tartu was designated a UNESCO City of Literature, which has further enhanced the vibrant literary scene. Tartu City of Literature residency program aims to increase international exchange and communication, contribute to the mobility of writers and translators, offer a creative and inspiring environment, and provide writers with an opportunity to introduce their work to Estonian readers. The programme is open to all writers and translators (translating from Estonian to other languages) from across the world who meet the criteria described below. The residency program is coordinated by the Estonian Literary Society in cooperation with Tartu Literature House Foundation and in partnership with various other literary institutions.
The spring residency period includes the week of the Tartu International Literary Festival Prima Vista, held from May 11–16. This year’s festival, titled True and False, focuses on the borderlands between human beings and technology, nature and culture, and reality and imagination. It explores how artificial intelligence and artificial environments shape human identity and creativity, how literature helps preserve human experience, the role of imagination in the formation of identity, and what cultural authenticity means in a contemporary context. While all writers and translators are encouraged to apply, particular interest will be given to applicants who can establish a meaningful connection with the festival’s theme. Traditionally, at least one public event with the resident is organised as part of the festival programme.
This call is for a 2-month residency period, in April-May 2026. Only oe applicant will be selected. The deadline for applications is February 23rd. The results will be announced at the beginning of March.
What is offered
- 2-month stay at the Karl Ristikivi residency apartment
- A scholarship of 600 euros per month
- Compensation of travel costs to and from Tartu up to 350 euros
- An opportunity to get engaged in the cultural scene of Tartu and to perform at different events, including Tartu International Literary Festival Prima Vista taking place May 11th-16th 2026.
- A contact person who is responsible for making arrangements for performances, meetings and tours and helps to engage in the local literary life
Application process
- Fill in the online application form available HERE
- Please upload an exerpt (up to 5 pages) of a published text (in Estonian or English) or an exerpt of a published translation (from Estonian into another language) in the respective section of the form
Selection criteria
- Upper intermediate level of spoken English
- At least one published book (fiction or non-fiction), screenplay, theatre script or translation from Estonian into another language
- Interest in Estonian culture and literature
- Readiness to participate in the local literary life, including events, meetings, interviews, festivals
- Literary work during the residency
The resident will be selected by a committee of 4 consisting of the representatives of the Estonian Literary Society (coordinating organisation of Tartu City of Literature), the Tartu Department of the Estonian Writers Union, the Estonian Literary Museum and Tartu Literature House Foundation.
For additional information, please contact Marja Unt, from the Estonian Literary Society/Tartu UNESCO City of Literature at eks@kirjandus.ee