Ventspils House – International Writers’ and Translators’ House [Latvia]

VENTSPILS HOUSE

The aim of the establishment of the International Writers’ and Translators’ House (Ventspils House) is to create a multifunctional international writer’s and translator’s centre, which promotes the development of literature, encourages cross-cultural dialogue and introduces the Latvian literary process to international circulation; to facilitate the decentralisation of the development of literature in Latvia by fostering a suitable cultural environment in regional Latvia.

PREMISES

The Ventspils City Council has successfully restored and set up the historic town hall, built in the 18th century, and located in Ventspils’ cultural historical center next to the new library. The building has been rebuilt, adapted for creative work and literary activities, with seven residential premises, a computer room, an internet connection, library, kitchen, sauna, parking facilities, small garden and recreation areas.

The House has space for small public events for up to 40 people.

Yearly the house can accommodate around 100 residents (writers and translators).

ADMISSION REQUIREMENT

Each professional writer and translator is welcome to apply for the four weeks residency and a grant (320EUR) by filling in the application form at the web page www.ventspilshouse.lv. The decision about the residents is made by the Experts Committee.

SELECTION CRITERIA

1. importance of the planned creative literary work;
2. clearly expressed idea and purpose of the planned creative literary work;
3. expected results of the creative work;
4. experience and competence of the applicant.

ACTIVITIES & COOPERATION WITH OTHER INSTITUTIONS

The Ventspils House in co-operation with Latvian Writers Union and Ministry of Culture is the main organizer of the Annual Latvian Literature Prize. The House participates in organization of National Poetry Days and Prose Reading festival in Latvia. We work very close with the local institutions – Library and University to organize creative writing/translation workshops and regular public readings.

To evaluate the books created at the Residency we have invented an international literary prize – Silver Ink that is awarded for the book created at the residency in prose, poetry and translation category.

STAFF

The Ventspils House staff is four people:

Director: Andra Konste
International project manager: Ieva Balode
Accountant: Iveta Liberga
House Keeper: Zeltite Freiberga

All are fully employed.

ADDRESSES & CONTACTS

Website: www.ventspilshouse.lv

Address: 13 Annas street, Ventspils, LV3601, Latvia

Phone: +371 63623596 / Fax: +371 63623596

Contact: Ieva Balode
E-mail: ieva.balode@ventspilshouse.lv