Frequently asked questions
What is Archival Bootcamp?
We use the idea of a camp to emphasise the communal and collaborative nature of the experience. Our archive camp is an artistic residency that combines theoretical sessions with practical exercises and individual work on our archive projects.
What do we mean by archive?
By archive we mean any set of documents, photos, letters, objects, books and other things that we want to work on and activate.
Do I need to have an ongoing project?
No, you don't, as we not only accept artists and creatives from all backgrounds and levels of experience, but also projects at any stage of development. In fact, you can come without a project, but it is always better to have something that you can apply what you have seen in the sessions.
What are the dates of the bootcamp?
For 2025, the will be running the first Spanish edition in Latin America from April 7th to 12th in Mendoza, Argentina. The English edition will take place in Valencia, as every year, late July and early August.
How do I apply?
The application process is really easy! Just fill out the form for the residency you're interested in (see Apply) with your personal details, project description and other minor details. In case of selection, you will reserve your place by paying the required fee.
✽ What is included & Costs
How much does the bootcamp cost?
The price per person depends on the residency, but it will cost you around 700-800 euros, with the possibility to pay in two installments.
What is included in the fee?
The fee covers all workshops, materials, accommodation and meals:
-Accommodation 5 nights / 6 days in shared rooms
-Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
-Workshops and activities
-Materials for activities
-Access to a library specialized in archival and artistic practice
-Internal transport (if applied)
Can I choose my accommodation?
No, we offer three dormitories (3, 4 or 6 beds), but the comfort of the participants will be taken into account according to their needs.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you are free to bring whatever you like, for yourself and to share.
Is health insurance included?
No, if you are coming from abroad we recommend that you have medical insurance to cover any medical emergencies during your stay. If you need help with this, we can make recommendations.
In case of not attending, can I get a refund?
No, for production and administrative reasons we do not offer refunds. If for any reason you can't come after paying, the amount paid will be credited to you for another future edition of Archival Bootcamp.
How is the selection process?
Projects are selected according to resonance, weighting and the group as a whole. We are always committed to plurality, both in terms of experience and projects. Far from quantitative parameters such as the number of exhibitions, scholarships or academic merit, what matters most to us is that the learning community can accompany, respect and grow together with others.
What kind of artistic activities will take place?
The residency has a mixed structure between individual and collective work, with both theoretical and practical approaches. In the mornings: we work on writing routines; reading texts on memory, art and archives; looking at references; exercises that help to define and understand our personal project and creative process; practical exercises to activate the archive. In the afternoons, we will work on our personal projects. Finally, two days of sharing and listening are proposed, to share progress, concerns and to nourish ourselves with our comments.
Are there any scheduled excursions?
Yes, we regularly organize optional treks for those who want to explore the area and mountains with the owners and local experts.
What should I bring?
We recommend that you bring:
-Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for both living and mountain activities (for trekking)
-Sunscreen, hat and insect repellent
-Toiletries (soap, shampoo, conditioner)
-Warm clothing
-Any kind of material you feel is essential for your practice (photos, downloaded videos, pencils, papers, notebook to write in, loose notes you want to work with, things you don't know why but feel could be useful, etc.)
Are there any evening activities at the camp?
Yes, on some evenings we organise evening activities such as film screenings, walks, as well as campfires and communal dinners.
What do I need to bring for the sessions?
We will provide you with everything you need for the morning sessions. To work on your personal project, you will need to bring your downloaded file (the material you are working on or want to start working on) to work on offline. The space has wifi, but the connection is not always stable. The residency provides bookshelves and reference books.
Is any experience required?
The bootcamp is open to everyone, regardless of previous experience with archives, artistic practice or stage of project development.
What kind of food is served at the camp?
The camp offers healthy, home-cooked vegetarian meals, with vegan option. Meals include local dishes from the Mendoza region, with fresh and seasonal ingredients. There is a space on the application form to mention any dietary restrictions (allergies, gluten-free diet, etc.).
What are the payment methods?
-Argentina: USD by Argentinean bank transfer or in Pesos by Mercado Pago making an average purchase and sale of the blue dollar.
-Rest of the world: PayPal, Wise, N26
What are the Bootcamp outputs?
The residency focuses less on producing a final product and more on fostering autonomy in creative processes and developing practical strategies for working with archives. The goals include joining an international network of artists, engaging with an updated selection of artists, references, and theories related to archives, as well as participating in hands-on exercises focused on archival work.
