Call for Applications: 14th International Obernkirchen Sculpture Symposium (IOBS 2027)
The non-profit cultural association Kulturfenster Obernkirchen e.V. invites professional stone sculptors worldwide to apply for the 14th International Obernkirchen Sculpture Symposium, taking place from August 23 to September 05, 2027 on the historic church square (Kirchplatz) in Obernkirchen (Lower Saxony, Germany). Up to ten sculptors will be selected by an expert jury.
Symposium Provisions & Artist Support
- Material: Each selected artist receives one block of world-renowned, light-colored Obernkirchen sandstone (approx. 1 m³ volume). Stone selection takes place directly at the historic Bückeberg quarry.
- Artist Fee: Each participating sculptor receives an expense allowance / artist fee of € 1,000.
- Accommodation & Board: Free lodging in the historic „Westflügel im Stift“ directly on the church square, plus full catering throughout the entire symposium.
- Travel Expenses: Reimbursement of verified travel costs in accordance with symposium guidelines.
- Open-Air Studio & Equipment: Fully equipped outdoor workspace on the church square with compressed air supply, pneumatic connection points, heavy stone lifting gear, electricity, and technical staff assistance.
Application Guidelines & Deadlines
Professional sculptors are invited to submit their application by postal mail including the following documents:
- Completed and signed official application form.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing artistic education and exhibitions.
- Portfolio or photographic documentation of representative past sculptures.
- Preliminary sketch or concept proposal for the planned sculpture in Obernkirchen sandstone.
Mailing Address for Applications:
Kulturfenster Obernkirchen e.V.
Kirchplatz 5
D-31683 Obernkirchen
Germany
Important Deadlines:
• January 15, 2027: Application deadline (date of postmark)
• By late March 2027: Jury selection and official invitations dispatched
• By April 15, 2027: Deadline for returning signed confirmation of participation
📄 Application Forms Download
The official application and registration forms (in English and German) will be available here for download shortly.
For questions and further inquiries regarding the open call, please contact:
E-mail: mail@iobs.de
