“Traditional Tushetian textile practices: kilim (flat-woven rug) weaving, wool processing and dyeing”
Residency Period: 15 – 29 January 2027
Aqtushetii is pleased to invite applications for a two-week winter residency dedicated to the traditional textile practices of Tusheti, held at our residency in Omalo, Tusheti.
Set within the winter landscape of the Caucasus Mountains, the residency offers participants an immersive environment in which to explore Tushetian textile traditions, with a particular focus on kilim (flat-woven rug) weaving and wool processing through hands-on practice.
Over the course of two weeks, participants will work alongside practitioners from the Omalo Fiber Guild, learning traditional kilim-weaving techniques and gaining experience working with locally sourced wool, traditional tools, materials and processes.
The residency offers an opportunity to engage closely with textile practices that have been passed down through generations and continue to form an important part of Tusheti's cultural heritage.
The residency participants will travel to and from Tusheti by helicopter, making the journey into the mountains part of the residency experience.
Duration of residency
2 weeks
Accommodation
Aqtushetii Residency
Disciplines, work equipment and assistance
The residency is open to participants of all backgrounds and levels of experience. No previous experience is required.
Alongside the structured sessions, there will be time for independent work, informal exchange, and engagement with the surrounding winter landscape.
Fees and support
The participation fee is €1,700 (all inclusive).
The fee covers:
- Helicopter transfer Telavi – Omalo – Telavi
- Accommodation in the residency
- Three meals per day
- Materials, equipment, and tools
- Full two-week weaving and quilting programme
Expectations towards the artist
Over the course of the residency, participants will be introduced to traditional textile practices of Tusheti through hands-on work with wool, dyeing, and weaving. The programme is designed to provide an immersive introduction to these practices while allowing participants to develop their own work.
Application information
Applicants must submit:
- A brief cover letter
- An optional portfolio, including photographs, website, or CV
Please send all materials to: aqtushetii@gmail.com. Subject line: Winter Weaving Residency 2027.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Places are limited to 3 participants, so early applications are encouraged!