Calling emerging designers and artists: Become an (S) Hero

Are you an emerging designer, artist, performer, or creative practitioner ready to make an impact?

The Time for (S) Heroes Open Call is your opportunity to transform your ideas into meaningful projects while joining a European community committed to sustainability, innovation, and creative collaboration.

Whether you’re developing your first concept or looking to take an existing project to the next level, Time for (S) Heroes offers a unique pathway of learning, mentoring, international collaboration, and artistic exchange.

As one of the project’s partners, ESPRONCEDA – Institute of Art & Culture is inviting emerging creatives at the early stages of their careers to become part of this exciting European journey. Throughout the project, ESPRONCEDA will support participants by sharing its expertise in art, design, technology, and sustainability, while creating opportunities for experimentation, collaboration, and professional growth.

The Open Call has been extended until 20 September, giving you more time to register on the Digital Platform, explore the free learning resources, and submit your creative proposal.

Start learning today

By registering on the Time for (S) Heroes Digital Platform, you’ll gain immediate access to a rich collection of free learning materials designed to inspire and strengthen your creative practice.

Topics include:

• Sustainability and circular design
• Digital fashion and costume design
• Emerging technologies, including AI and XR
• Creative business development
• Heroism and storytelling
• Drama pedagogy and participatory methods

The learning materials are available to everyone who registers and can be used for self-directed learning or as additional resources for educators, mentors, and creative organisations.

Turn your idea into a European opportunity

The Open Call is just the beginning.

Following the learning phase, selected participants will be invited to the Design Wave Festival, an international co-creation programme where they will refine their ideas with mentors, designers, artists, and fellow creatives from across Europe.

The strongest projects will then be selected for international residencies, including at ESPRONCEDA in Barcelona, and in Finland where participants will have the opportunity to develop their work in an inspiring interdisciplinary environment, collaborate with professionals, and connect with the city’s vibrant cultural ecosystem.

The residency programme concludes with exhibitions, public events, and digital showcases, offering participants valuable international visibility and opportunities to engage with industry professionals.

Join the Time for (S) Heroes Community

At ESPRONCEDA, we believe that creativity has the power to drive positive social and environmental change. We are proud to be part of Time for (S) Heroes, supporting a new generation of creatives who are ready to imagine more sustainable futures through design, art, and technology.

Whether you are a designer, artist, maker, performer, researcher, or multidisciplinary creative, this is your opportunity to learn, collaborate, and grow within an international network.

Applications are open until 20 September.

Create your free account and start exploring the learning platform today:

→ Register on the Time for (S) Heroes Digital Platform

Learn more about the Open Call, eligibility criteria, residencies, timeline, and Frequently Asked Questions:

→ Time for (S) Heroes Open Call & FAQ

Become an (S) Hero. Share your vision, develop your project, and join a European movement shaping the future of sustainable creativity.