DEADLINE: February 13, 2022

Science Gallery Bengaluru seek interactive, participatory and experimental works for CARBON, an exhibition-season opening in November 2022, which calls into question our existing relationship with carbon.

We are all made of carbon, as is everything around us. It forms the backbone of our DNA, is key to life maintaining processes like photosynthesis and respiration and drives our industries. Our ability to control and manipulate carbon—whether as charcoal, oil, carbon nanotubes or buckyballs—has revolutionised every aspect of the way we live. From medicine and machinery to architecture and art—the sooty fingerprints of carbon are visible on almost everything humanity has built.

As we enter a new age of carbon consciousness, how do we reimagine our relationship with this element? For this exhibition-season, Science Gallery Bengaluru is looking to work with such individuals or groups—preferably from across career and disciplinary backgrounds—who are critically exploring carbon in its diverse forms in both the contemporary and historical context as well as those engaged with emerging research. Science Gallery Bengaluru seek applications that are artistic or scientific inquiries, or both.

What makes a strong open call proposal?

First and foremost, Science Gallery Bengaluru prioritize works that help their audiences critically explore the processes of producing knowledge relevant to the topic of the current Open Call.

They are looking for both existing and new projects that match Science Gallery’s core aims: to Connect, Participate, and Surprise. Relevance to their core audience of 15-25-year-olds is important.

What budget is available?

Projects supported via the Open Call for the exhibition can typically be funded by Science Gallery Bengaluru up to INR 3,00,000 (including all costs, artist fees, materials, equipment, shipping, travel, taxes etc.). Public programme proposals can typically be funded up to INR 1,00,000.

Please note that projects of larger scale could be considered only where additional partners/funding can be secured. Science Gallery Bengaluru enthusiastically welcomes proposals that work to a smaller budget or have a larger budget and are part funded through other means.

For information and to apply visit the Science Gallery Bengaluru website.

About Science Gallery Bengaluru

Science Gallery Bengaluru (SGB) is a not-for-profit public institution for research-based engagement targeted at young adults. SGB work at the interface between the natural and human sciences, engineering and the arts through a Public Lab Complex, ever-changing exhibitions, and mentorship programmes.

SGB is established with the founding support of the Government of Karnataka and three academic partners—Indian Institute of Science, National Centre for Biological Sciences, and Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology. It is a member of the Global Science Gallery Network with sister galleries in Atlanta, Berlin, Detroit, Dublin, London, Melbourne and Rotterdam.