The Island Connect Co-Creation Residency is in full swing at BIRCA – Bækkelund International Residency Center for Artists, bringing together artists from across Europe for a period of collaboration, exploration, and creative exchange.

From the very first day, the residency has been filled with energy, inspiration, and a wealth of ideas. As participants settled into the unique surroundings of Bornholm, conversations quickly evolved into creative possibilities, with artists sharing perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work. The atmosphere has been one of openness and curiosity, creating fertile ground for new collaborations and artistic experimentation.

The residency began with a visit to artist Christina Joensson’s exhibition space in Allinge, offering participants an opportunity to engage with local artistic practice and gain further inspiration from the cultural landscape of the island. The day concluded with a visit to Madsebakken, where the group gathered to watch the sunset and reflect on the ideas and connections that had already begun to emerge.

The following day saw participants continue their exploration of Bornholm’s rich cultural and natural environment. Visits to Kultippan, Svartingedalen, and Grønbechsgaard Exhibition Space provided fresh perspectives and sparked new creative conversations. These inspiring locations encouraged artists to engage with the island’s landscapes, heritage, and artistic communities while deepening connections within the group.

Back at BIRCA, artists transformed their experiences into a series of playful and thought-provoking artistic experiments. Through collaborative activities and creative exploration, participants tested ideas, challenged assumptions, and discovered unexpected possibilities together. These moments of experimentation lie at the heart of the co-creation residency, encouraging artists to step beyond established practices and embrace new ways of working.

Day three continued the spirit of discovery and collaboration with a journey to Hammerknuden, where participants enjoyed a “Viking wander” through one of Bornholm’s most dramatic landscapes, followed by a well-earned ice cream. While the day offered plenty of opportunities for enjoyment and connection, it also marked an important milestone for the residency. Artists came together for a significant discussion focused on identifying the common ground that will help shape the future collaborative project emerging from the residency.

The day concluded with a special visit from folktale expert Lars Rømer, who entertained and inspired the group with stories rooted in local traditions and cultural heritage. His storytelling offered valuable insights into Bornholm’s rich folklore, providing yet another source of inspiration for the artists as they continue to develop ideas together.

The Island Connect Co-Creation Residency continues to demonstrate the value of bringing artists together in a shared environment where creativity, dialogue, and discovery can flourish. Through artistic experimentation, cultural exchange, and collective reflection, participants are building the foundations for future collaborations that extend beyond the residency itself.

As ideas continue to evolve and partnerships take shape, we look forward to sharing further updates from BIRCA and the exciting work emerging from this international gathering of artists.

Island Connect is funded by the Creative Europe Programme and supported by partner organisations across Europe, creating opportunities for artists and cultural organisations to connect, collaborate, and create across island and peripheral regions.