Open Competition for Site-Specific Art Program for the Swiss Embassy Offices, Belgrade

In July 2026, the Embassy of Switzerland in Serbia will move into its new premises in Belgrade, bringing all Embassy staff together in a single building for the first time. This important step marks a new phase in Switzerland’s diplomatic presence in Serbia and takes place in the context of a long-standing relationship between the two countries, characterized by strong economic cooperation, close social ties shaped by a large Serbian diaspora in Switzerland. In 2026, Serbia and Switzerland will also mark 110 years of diplomatic relations, providing a meaningful backdrop for this new chapter.

On the occasion of this relocation, the Embassy of Switzerland is launching an open call for proposals for site-specific artworks. Artists and designers are invited to submit proposals for the artistic articulation of the interior spaces of the new Embassy building, including offices, meeting rooms, reception areas, circulation zones, and representational spaces. The selected works will become an integral part of the building’s architectural and interior identity and will form a long-term cultural presence accompanying the Embassy’s daily work and public mission.

The program seeks to support contemporary artistic practice, strengthen Swiss–Serbian cultural exchange, and integrate art seamlessly into a professional diplomatic environment. Particular importance is placed on artworks that demonstrate conceptual clarity, originality and material quality, and that are capable of functioning as long-term interior elements. Sustainability, durability, and low maintenance are essential considerations to ensure the artworks’ long-term relevance and suitability.

The open call is addressed to:

• Swiss-based artists, designers, or artist collectives
• Serbian artists, designers, or artist collectives
• Joint project teams or collaborations between Swiss and Serbian artists or institutions

Applicants are required to submit:

• A completed project proposal form (available on the Embassy website)
• A site-responsive concept proposal with visual material
• A professional portfolio demonstrating experience with projects of comparable scope
• If applicable, short description of previous collaboration with Swiss or Serbian institutions and the results achieved

Eligible Artworks:

• Site-specific original artworks developed for the Embassy interiors
• Existing artworks suitable for long-term interior display
• All proposed works must be appropriate for a professional and diplomatic environment and adaptable to the architectural, technical, and security conditions of the building.

Proposals will be evaluated by a jury on the basis of:

• Artistic and conceptual quality
• Suitability as long-term interior artwork
• Compatibility with diplomatic and professional environments
• Technical feasibility and compliance with security, fire, and safety regulations
• Ease of conservation, maintenance, and component replacement
• Alignment with Swiss cultural values and the diplomatic mission
• Sensitivity to the local context, avoiding controversial symbolism or inappropriate messaging

Two online information sessions to inform about the program for interested participants will be organized on March 18 13:00 and March 25 13:00. Please register on belgrade.artcompetition@eda.admin.ch.

Selection Process

The selection process will include the appointment of a jury, chaired by the Swiss Ambassador to Serbia. Submitted proposals will be evaluated and shortlisted, followed by technical feasibility reviews and the invitation of shortlisted applicants to present their proposals (online). Final approval will be granted by the Embassy of Switzerland in Belgrade (FDFA).

Only the three highest-rated proposals will be announced. No written or verbal feedback will be provided to non-selected applicants. Shortlisted artists will be invited to visit the Embassy premises prior to final production in order to review spatial, technical, and architectural conditions.

Timeline and Key Dates

• Launch of the competition: 12 March 2026
• Submission deadline: 3 May 2026
• Announcement of the selected artist: End-May 2026
• Production and installation: July - September 2026
• Completion: October 2026 (aligned with the opening of the new Embassy)

Financial Framework

Winner’s prize (artist fee): 300,000 RSD

Production budget: up to 700,000 RSD (materials, fabrication, installation)

Runner-up awards: two awards of 100,000 RSD each

Production costs will be agreed upon with the selected artist and managed in coordination with the Embassy and its project partners.