Art, energy materials and experimental science in Sion
TRACES — Transdisciplinary Research in Arts, Creation & Sciences selects one international professional visual artist, including an applicant based in Morocco, to work with Professor Sascha Feldmann's Laboratory for Energy Materials at EPFL on the Energypolis campus in Sion, Switzerland. The stay runs 11 January–18 April 2027, with an open presentation on 15 April. Artists explore the transformation of light into energy, the physical behaviour of materials and new forms of visual storytelling.Financial and technical support
The programme includes a CHF 2,000 monthly artist stipend, totalling CHF 6,000, self-catering accommodation in Sion, return travel reimbursement capped at CHF 1,500, a separately agreed production budget, professional curatorial guidance and supervised collaboration with scientists. Food, local transport and telephone expenses are not covered. Artists must arrange their own visa documentation and valid medical/accident insurance, although organisers can advise on administrative issues.
Eligibility
Applicants must be at least 25 years old, have finished their studies at least two years ago, and demonstrate at least two years of recognised professional artistic practice, through specialised training or equivalent experience and public presentations. Open to all nationalities, including Moroccans. Eligible practices include visual installation, sculpture, digital media, photography, visual performance and interdisciplinary visual arts.
How to prepare your proposal
The project may start from research questions rather than a finished design: How do we perceive processes normally invisible, or build artistic narratives from energy materials? Apply in English or French with a cover letter of up to one A4 page (3,000 characters), a statement of intent of up to two A4 pages (6,000 characters), recent portfolio and an artistic CV. The proposal should explain clearly why the EPFL laboratory setting matters to the artist.
Deadline
The decision is expected in early December 2026. Applications close 22 November 2026 at 23:59 Swiss time (CET). Use the official project portal, not a generic unsolicited email.
[Official application portal](https://www.traces-opencall.ch/) · [Programme details](https://www.transartists.org/en/news/traces-art-science-energypolis) · [Other cultural grants and residencies](https://culturama.ma/opportunites).
*Image: illustrative perovskite research photograph from Swiss research institute Empa, not the official TRACES poster.*