FAQ: OPEN CALL
On this page you can find the most frequently asked questions about the Open Call of Amsterdam Light Festival Edition 16.
When is the next Open Call?
The Open Call for Edition 16 (2027-2028) is now open, from 14 September to 7 December 2026. Head over to this page for all information.
How can I participate?
Download the artist briefing first (via this pagina or the button below) and follow the steps. The artist briefing for the Open Call X Amarte is different, please find it further along this page.
How do I submit my concept?
We only accept submission via our submission portal. The link to the portal can be found in the artist briefing. You can use the sumission template as a guideline, it can be 3 pages max. The deadline is 7 December 2026.
When is the deadline?
The deadline for submissions is 7 December 2026, 23:59h Central Eastern Time.
Can I do multiple submissions?
Yes, you can. Please remember to give your pdf files a different name.
What are the selection criteria?
We assess your concept on the bases of quality, interpretation of the briefing, visitor experience and relation to the artist statement. It is essential to us that the overall selection is inclusive and diverse. In the artist briefing you can find more information and inspiration for your concept. Please note that your work needs to withstand two months outdoors and cannot cause nuisance to local residents (e.g. smoke, sound or lasers).
Can I submit an existing work?
While we're primarily looking for new works to present, if you think that something you've made could fit, we'd like to hear from you too.
I don't have any experience, can I participate?
Yes, you can! We encourage everyone to participate and we offer financial and technical support where necessary. Next to that, we have a huge network of technicians and local suppliers to make your idea into a light artwork.
What costs are covered?
Every selected maker receives an artist fee of € 4,000 (read more about it here). Next to that, the costs of making the artwork as well as travel costs are covered. For the Open Call X Amarte a set production budget is available, see below.
When is Edition 16?
The 16th edition of Amsterdam Light Festival takes place from 25 November 2027 until 16 January 2028.
Can I still participate in Edition 15?
No, we do not accept submission for coming edition anymore (Edition 15, 2026-2027). The selection has been finalised and production has already begun.
What is the Open Call X Amarte?
With support of the Amarte Fonds, we offer makers the opportunity to develop a work for walking visitors. The only strict criteria are that you're based in the Netherlands and new in the field of light art. Every selected maker receives an artist fee of € 4,000 and a production budget of € 20,000.
Download the artist briefing below (please note that it's different from the general Open Call!) or read more about the call on the Amarte website.
The deadline for the Open Call X Amarte is the same as the general call; 7 December 2026, 23:59h CET.
DOWNLOAD ARTIST BRIEFING (AMARTE)
CONTACT
Couldn't find what you were looking for? Please send us an email artists@amsterdamlightfestival.com.