Nordic Artist Exchange

Congratulations to Our Selected Artists

The Nordic Artist Exchange (NAX) is delighted to welcome two talented artists from Tartu, Estonia, to the Cotton Factory in Hamilton this September as part of our esteemed residency program. Selected by the Tartu Artist Union, Regina-Mareta Soonsein and Mr. Edgar Tedresaar will be joining us for an exciting month of artistic exploration and cultural exchange beginning September 25 through to  October 31st, 2024

Ms. Regina-Mareta Soonsein, a celebrated linocut artist, brings a distinctive style to the NAX residency. A graduate of Pallas University of Applied Sciences, Soonsein has been actively exhibiting her work since 2017, earning prestigious awards such as the Biafarin Award at the NordArt exhibition and the Year’s Newcomer’s title from The Association of Estonian Printmakers in 2019. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to captivate audiences with her detailed linocuts make her an exceptional addition to the residency. Learn more about Regina-Mareta at reginamareta.com.

Mr. Edgar Tedresaar, a prominent abstract expressionist painter, has an impressive academic background from Tartu Art College and Tartu University. Known for his dynamic large-scale outdoor murals and abstract works, Tedresaar’s art delves into the unseen realms of energy, emotions, and psychology that connect us all. His work has been featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions, establishing him as a rising star in the contemporary art world. More about Edgar can be found at edgartedresaar.com.

Building Cultural Bridges Through Art

This residency is more than an opportunity for artistic growth; it is a vital cultural exchange designed to strengthen the artistic communities between Tartu, Estonia, and Hamilton, Canada. The Nordic Artist Exchange program, supported by the Hamilton Arts Council (HAC) and the Cotton Factory, is dedicated to fostering connections between artists and making the arts accessible and relevant to the entire Hamilton community.

The Cotton Factory, in collaboration with HAC, is proud to provide these artists with flights, a studio space free of charge and a weekly honorarium as part of their commitment to supporting local and international talent. This partnership exemplifies our vision of creating a vibrant and inclusive arts community.

The residency will culminate in an open studio event at the end of October, where the public can engage with the artists and explore their work.

About the Nordic Artist Exchange (NAX)

The Nordic Artist Exchange (NAX) is a collaborative residency program that brings together artists from the Nordic and Baltic regions to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges with Canadian artists. The program aims to inspire creativity, foster international dialogue, and build lasting relationships between artists and their communities.

The Cotton Factory in partnership with Hamilton Arts Council,  Estonian Artists’ Association and Tartu Artist Union offers the Nordic Artist Exchange (NAX) program.

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Nordic Artist Exchange (NAX)

The NAX program is a 4 to 6-week artist residency exchange designed to expand the individual artistic practices and professional ambitions of mid-career visual and media artists. The program provides airfare and accommodation for both an apartment and studio, with the associated benefits of being introduced to the many facets of the Estonian arts scene. This is an opportunity to deepen your creative processes and build relationships with international creatives and artists.

About the Program

In addition to airfare and accommodation, this opportunity includes a $500.00 CAD weekly residency stipend and a production allowance for material costs between $300-$500 CAD. You will be provided with an apartment and studio that will be situated in the Old City of Tallinn close to many galleries and artist studios.

​While in Estonia you will be partnered with an artist liaison that will help you navigate the city and the art scene in Tallinn, Estonia.

Key Program Dates

The 2024 Applications have closed. The 2025 submission dates will be announced in the new year.

​September/October 2025 – Residency Dates in Estonia

Application Requirements (3 steps):

1.Applicants must have an Artist/Creative account, accompanied by a visible public profile, on The Arty Crowd website at theartycrowd.ca (The Arty Crowd is free for Artists/Creatives of any practice).

2.Completion of an application form, where you will provide:

  • An artist statement describing the conceptual basis of your artistic practice and frame your work within a larger context, including your connections to the Hamilton region.
  • A proposal of the work you would like to explore while in Estonia, and a 4-week detailed plan.
  • Five samples of your artistic work, including a description of the work, title, date created, mediums, and size. Minimum of 72 dpi.
  • A copy of your CV, outlining your education and related experience.

3.An interview with NAX program coordinators (Shortlisted artists only)

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For any questions, or to request application accommodations, please email [email protected] prior to the application closing date.