BAL Residency (Baltic Analog Lab & Skaņu Mežs)
Location
Riga, Latvia — Baltic Analog Lab artist-run film lab and residency space.
Open to
International artists and researchers working with analog media including photochemical film, photography, and experimental sound. Applicants should be practicing artists/researchers with experience or a need for dedicated creative time.
Application Fee
No application fee.
Residency participation fee: €500 per month, payable before arrival.
What’s Provided
One- or two-month residency period with accommodation in a shared 4-bedroom apartment with common working/living area and Wi-Fi.
Access to fully equipped analog film lab facilities: darkrooms, workspaces, dark screening space, projectors, lomo tanks, photo enlargers, Steenbeck, etc.
Access to a Neilson-Hordell optical printer (for experienced filmmakers).
Sound work setup with analog synthesizers and studio gear supported by Erica Synths.
Opportunities for public presentations, screenings, performances, workshops, and connection to the local artistic community.
What the Artist/Applicant Must Cover
Residency participation fee.
Travel, living, and material costs.
Film stock, chemistry, and other materials (artists supply their own).
Additional training costs if required (arranged in advance).
Duration
Residency lasts 1–2 months.
Deadline
November 27, 2025: for January–February 2026 residency.
December 11, 2025: for March–April 2026 residency.
Late/rolling applications may be considered if rooms remain available.
Other Notes
Residency space is community-run; residents should be reasonably independent and familiar with equipment.
Discounts may be offered occasionally for applicants from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Projects do not have to be completed during the residency but sharing work with the local community is expected (presentation, screening, workshop).
