At Zemla Studio, we place great value on the fusion of tradition and innovation. In practice, this means blending folk music with electronic sounds, working with traditional crafts alongside digital technologies, and combining classical promotional strategies with AI. Often, this approach is rather eclectic, but we believe that two things reveal their true essence in contrast — it is precisely in the clash of opposites that truth emerges, or at the very least, an emotional spark is born.
Personally, I have taken part in artistic residencies and I know the liberating feeling of escaping routine — finding yourself, even for a while, in an isolated place among like-minded people, working on something local, fleeting, and intimate that might eventually become timeless. For years, I have wanted to create this kind of opportunity — both for myself and for other artists. Perhaps it’s my own form of creative voyeurism, but I genuinely love watching other artists work on something sacred.
Now, in 2025, the opportunity has come to invite artists to gather in a picturesque Sicilian town — to rest, reflect, and create a product at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Sicily is a region of many layers and rich contrasts; it has witnessed the influence of countless peoples and cultures over centuries. It is unruly, unique, and breathes with the hot pulses of Mount Etna. I am inviting two artists — one from Ukraine and one from Poland — to come to Sicily to realize a joint project under the theme #TraditionInnovation.
I am especially interested in musical projects that can also embrace mixed techniques — digital visualizations using clay, forest sensors, 3D scanning… even communication with UFOs. Anything is possible. The key is to incorporate Ukrainian and Polish traditions into a contemporary musical framework, presenting this work first on the island, then in Ukraine and Poland, and most importantly, publishing it through our studio’s label.
There is no strict deadline for applications. The residency can begin as early as August 1, 2025. I look forward to your proposals — we will discuss and plan everything in real time.
dr. Myroslav Trofymuk, founder of Zemla Studio
We offer the possibility to stay on the island, with access to a computer and the Internet, and we also provide logistical advice whenever possible. Participants cover their own travel and living expenses.
Fill out the form to submit your application
We provide:
- Free accommodation in a picturesque Sicilian town
- Access to a workspace
- Internet access
- Connections with the local community
- A venue to present your project on the island
- Support with publishing your project
- Presentation of your project in Ukraine and Poland
- Logistical advice and local guidance whenever possible
You provide:
- Any equipment and materials you may need
- Travel expenses (round trip)
- Living expenses during your stay, such as food and personal needs