Join the (S) Heroes design journey
the Open Call will be announced in spring 2026
We are inviting curious individuals at the early stage of their careers* with advanced skills in fashion, costume, art installation, or other design approach to submit groundbreaking proposals.
This is your chance to challenge traditional approaches, experiment with new mediums, and contribute to a more sustainable and immersive creative landscape.
* minimum requirement is Bachelor's degree in respective studies or equal competencies and knowhow. No age restriction.
Themes
Sustainable Fashion, Digital Design, and interpreting Heroism.
Your Mission
The Open Call will be announced in spring 2026. Register now to receive updates.
Participants will receive mentorship and capacity-building support through our digital portal, including guidance on sustainability, installation art, and the integration of digital technology in fashion and costume design.
Free Opportunities
What you’ll gain
- Collaboration with creatives from different disciplines.
- Hands-on experience and knowledge in sustainable design, materials and upcycling.
- Guidance on installation art, performative elements, and digital components in design.
- Opportunity to enter the Incubation Program.
- A chance to showcase your work at exhibitions across Europe.
Call for Participants
Who are you?
We are looking for:
- Fashion designers, costume designers, fashion, fashion illustrators, stylists, textile and accessory designers, exhibition and display coordinators, creative directors, fashion business developers, brand managers, graphic designers, service designers, industrial designers etc.
- Art installation and performing arts specialists, light and sound designers, visual artists, concept designers, contemporary artists, designers interested in experimental exhibitions and interaction design, new media graduates, game designers and programmers, performance artists with focus on installations, new media graduates, game designers and programmers.
- Innovators who speak on sustainability issues or engage in the development of new materials.
You may have background or interested in one or several of these and other areas.
Zero waste and upcycling
Co-operation for recycled materials
At the creative residency in Finland, the participants have the opportunity to utilize local Ekomaa Recycling Store in gathering materials for their creations.
Ekomaa is run by Parik Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports social sustainability and enhances circular economy in Kouvola area.
Rethink the (S) Hero
This is where designers become sustainability heroes.
Sign up to get updates about our Digital Portal and the Open Call in early 2026. Registered users can gain the following benefits through the Portal:
- Access to the learning and inspirational materials from top teachers and industry representatives.
- Getting mentorship from +20 experts by advancing in the Open Call.
- Possibility to craft you exhibition idea at creative residencies in Finland or Spain.
- Network and present your profile.
Funded by the European Union.
Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA).
Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.