Writers and Translators, Apply now for Residency in Tartu City of Literature

Tartu is the second largest town in 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. The 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 residency program is coordinated by the Estonian Literary Society in cooperation with the Tartu Department of the Tartu Literature House Foundation and in partnership with various other literary institutions.

In 2025 the 500th anniversary of the first printed book in the Estonian language will be celebrated across the country. The motto of the Estonian Book Year 2025 is “A people begins with a book”, and inspired by this, Tartu International Literary Festival Prima Vista, taking place from May 5 - 11, will bear the subtitle Place as Book / Book as Place and will focus on literary mapping and reflection of Tartu, Estonia and places around the world. While they encourage all writers and translators to apply for the residency call, they are this time particularly interested in applicants who can establish a meaningful connection with the theme of the festival. During the festival, a public event connected to past residency programmes in Tartu will take place. While hosting the event in the apartment is not a requirement for applicants, a willingness to do so would be greatly appreciated.

The Residency

The residency lasts two months, from April to May 2025. One writer will be selected. The residency includes accommodation in the Karl Ristikivi residency apartment. This one room apartment has all necessary amenities, fast Wi-Fi, a shower and a small kitchen. Also included are: a stipend of €600 per month; compensation of return travel costs to Tartu up to €350; opportunities to engage with Tartu's cultural scene, including performing at different events, including Tartu International Literary Festival Prima Vista taking place 5th-11th May 2025. The resident will be supported by a contact person who is responsible for making arrangements for performances, meetings and tours, and will help the resident to engage in the local literary life.

Eligibility

• an upper intermediate level of spoken English or Estonian
• 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
• willingness to participate in local literary life in Tartu
• a literary project to work on during the residency
• a connection with a UNESCO City of Literature

Applications

Fill in the online application form available.

Upload a fragment (up to 5 pages) of a published text (in Estonian or English) or a fragment of a published translation (from Estonian into another language) in the respective section of the form.

The deadline for applications is February 20th. The results will be announced by March 4th at the latest and only one applicant will be selected.

If you would like support with or advice on your application, please contact Keira on edinburgh@cityofliterature.com.