Open call: Social Arts Practice Research seminar

The seminar seeks to bring together socially engaged practice-researchers from diverse arts disciplines, including music, theatre, performance, music theatre, opera, dance, visual arts, curating, circus, storytelling and design. The event creates a unique space for researchers working across different participatory, social, and community contexts to share experiences and methodologies.

Who should apply

The organisers welcome applications from socially engaged arts practice-researchers – defined as researchers who explore questions and topics through collaborative, socially engaged, and participatory practices. The seminar is open to:

• PhD students and graduates.
• Independent researchers..
• Early career researchers.
• Experienced researchers.
• Format & participation.

The seminar will host up to 30 participants. While there is no registration fee, participants are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and meal costs.

Key research questions

During the seminar, the organisers will explore:

• The role of specific crafts/disciplines in socially engaged research.
• Definitions and terminology in socially engaged/participatory arts research.
• Stakeholder involvement in the research process.
• Challenges in practice-based research.
• Research methodologies and methods.
• Contexts and roles within participatory research.
• Ethical considerations.
• Methods of analysis..
• Relevant approaches to dissemination.

Organisers

The seminar is jointly organised by:

• The international scholarly network SIMM (Social Impact of Music-Making), based in Brussels, Belgium.
• The Academic Chair Jonet on Social Action & Music-Making, Ghent University and University of Applied Sciences and Arts Ghent, Belgium.
• The Guildhall De-Centre for Socially Engaged Practice and Research, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London.

This marks SIMM’s 11th seminar since 2015. While previous events focused primarily on music, this seminar expands to encompass multiple art forms, fostering cross-disciplinary learning and exchange.

Application process

Applications should send an expression of interest to Lukas Pairon at lukas.pairon@simm-platform.eu before 15 April.

Applicants should Include the following information:

• Full name.
• Institutional affiliation (if applicable).
• Current professional role(s).
• Primary arts discipline(s).
• Current project description (250 words max) with relevant weblinks.
• Motivation for participation (50 words).
• One main question/topic you wish to discuss.
• Confirmation of availability for both full days (8 to 9 September 2025).

Selection notifications will be sent by 31 May 2025.

View the original call here.