The Crystal Ship is calling on experienced street art artists to participate in the 2026 festival, with the theme CURIOSITY AND LOOKING (AGAIN). This is your chance to use the power of art as a symbol of transformation. As an artist, you’ll have the opportunity to transform the city of Ostend with your work.
Open call
Make an impact
We look forward to your proposal and hope to welcome you as a participant in The Crystal Ship 2026!
Take part in the festival
The Crystal Ship invites you to take part in this open call. The curator of The Crystal Ship 2026 chose CURIOSITY AND LOOKING (AGAIN) as theme of this years edition. We invite everyone to look again, because whoever looks, sees more. Each artist gets the chance to tell part of this larger story from his or her own point of view. In this way, the walls become not only eye-catchers, but also places of dialogue and reflection - places that make passers-by stop, literally and figuratively.
The Crystal Ship 2026 is an opportunity to transform the city of Ostend and bring change to life visually. We look forward to your proposal and hope to welcome you as a participant in the festival!
What are we looking for?
Experienced street art artists with a proven portfolio, capable of creating visually impressive works on (large) public walls.
Artists who can interpret the theme CURIOSITY AND LOOKING (AGAIN) in their own unique way.
Creative and innovative works that not only transform physical space but also create interaction with the environment and the public.
What do we offer?
Locations: Various walls and public spaces in Ostend. You may choose one or more walls (only one wall will be assigned per artist).
Materials: The Crystal Ship will provide all necessary materials (paint, cherry pickers, etc.), depending on your project’s requirements.
Fee: A fee of €2,500.00 incl. VAT for the execution of the work.
Visibility: Your work will be part of the open-air exhibition and the permanent collection of The Crystal Ship, receiving extensive exposure through festival marketing, social media, press, and other communication channels.
Networking: The opportunity to collaborate with other talented street artists and engage with the local community.
Hospitality:
Free accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Ostend during the festival.
Meals (lunch and dinner) provided throughout your stay.
Travel reimbursement and access to bicycles and shuttles during the festival.
What do we expect from you?
Experience: A proven track record of working on large-scale public art projects, with a portfolio demonstrating technical skill and creativity.
Concept and execution: You must develop a concept that reflects the theme CURIOSITY AND LOOKING (AGAIN) and translate it into a work that impacts both the environment and the public. Along with your application, please submit a brief text explaining your vision of the theme.
Professionalism: We expect a professional work ethic, with the ability to meet deadlines and work within the provided resources. You should also hold a certification to operate a cherry picker.
Festival Dates:
The festival will take place from March 30 to April 11, 2026. During this period, the artworks will be created and presented in Ostend, after which they will become part of The Crystal Ship’s permanent collection.
How to apply
Fill out the form below to apply.
Application deadline: February 15, 2026
Jury and selection
- A jury will determine which artists will be selected to participate in the festival.
- The organization of The Crystal Ship reserves the right to reject artists or select no one, based on the submitted proposals.
