Vrijplaats is FilmForward’s annual research trajectory in which filmmakers are given the time and space to pursue a self-chosen research project. This new Vrijplaats is organised in collaboration with Beeld & Geluid and focuses on archives: we invite filmmakers and image researchers who work with archives, to apply. Deadline: 6 April at 13.00.
Within the film and audiovisual sector, archives are used in various ways: the archive can be an important site of research for film- and av-professionals, while existing moving images from archives can also be used to tell a new, or different, story. Through found footage, you can create an entirely new film, or rework existing material according to your own vision.
Archives also raise questions for researchers, such as: which communities are (still) not represented in the archiveg? And how does the selection of what we archive—a selection that is not neutral—determine which structures we maintain in society?
An archive is never neutral, but also never complete. This is precisely where the strength of an archive lies: existing material can be shaped into something new. We can feminise, decolonise, and queer the archivev in order to make silences and gaps visible, as well as add new histories to them.
Who is this Vrijplaats for?
For this Vrijplaats, we invite filmmakers and image researchers to submit a research proposal around the theme of archive. The term filmmaker does not only apply to directors, but also sound designers and podcast creators, etcetera. There is space for six to eight filmmakers / image researchers, who will receive a stipend to further develop their research.
There’s also space for two to four observers: recently graduated researchers or MA-students in the final phase of their study. These observers do not receive a stipend, but can follow the programme and access the archives of Beeld & Geluid. For the application we only expect a motivation from them.
Application procedure
Apply before Monday 6 April 2026 at 13:00 through this form. Online selection interviews will take place on Wednesday 29 April, Thursday 30 April, and Friday 1 May. We will announce the selected participants mid-May.
The programme
Vrijplaats Archive runs from June 2026 to April 2027 and consists of masterclasses, training sessions, feedback sessions, and visits to film festivals and archives. You will be coached by Juliette Jansen and Cees Martens from Beeld & Geluid, and Vrijplaats curator Dana Linssen. There is also ample space for joint sessions in which participants look at each other’s work and learn from one another. Participants are expected to attend all sessions—mostly in Amsterdam and Hilversum. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.
The programme concludes with presentations during Movies That Matter 2027.
Programme timeline (subject to change)
8 April
Frequently asked questions
Who is this Vrijplaats for?
For this Vrijplaats, we invite filmmakers and image researchers to submit a research proposal around the theme of archive. The term filmmaker does not only apply to directors, but also sound designers and podcast creators, etcetera. There is space for six to eight filmmakers / image researchers, who will receive a stipend to further develop their research.
There’s also space for two to four observers: recently graduated researchers or MA-students in the final phase of their study. These observers do not receive a stipend, but can follow the programme and access the archives of Beeld & Geluid.
How do I apply as a filmmaker or image researcher?
Submit your application with a research proposal via this form by Monday 6 April, 13h00. The research proposal is intended to deepen your existing audiovisual project through archival research, or to explore your research project.
How do I apply as an observer?
Submit your motivation via this form by Monday 6 April, 13h00.
Can I apply as a team?
No, you can only apply individually as a film- or av-professional, or researcher.
Will my travel expenses be reimbursed?
Yes, all travel expenses to the Vrijplaats programme activities will be reimbursed.
What is the working language of the programme?
Depending on the selected participants, the language will be English or Dutch.
I’m not sure if my experience, research proposal or motivation is sufficient—how can I get in touch with FilmForward?
Send an email to project manager Dymme Plomp: dymme@filmforward.nl. We are happy to look for a solution together with you.
