Theme of the 10th edition 2025/2026
SOUND x SILENCE – two apparent opposites that together shape our perception of the world. They have many forms, and somewhere between them we seek balance, rhythm, and our own equilibrium. Sound, however, has its physical basis: we define it as a mechanical wave. What, then, does silence mean? Is it the absence of sound, or only frequencies beyond the limits of our perception? Similar questions are asked not only by the scientific community, but also by artists. In his work 4’33”, composer John Cage turned attention precisely to silence – not as emptiness, but as a potential that allows the sounds of the present moment to be heard.
This year’s theme invites us to think not only about what we do (not) hear, but also about what we see. The languages of music and visual art often overlap – concepts such as rhythm or composition belong to both worlds. The visuality of music is also strongly present in the work of Monogramist T.D., where musical notation turns into graphic metaphors, stripped of the purpose of musical interpretation. Conversely, the traditional “silence of the gallery” is increasingly disrupted by performances, sound installations, and intermedia interventions that expand artistic practice with new sensory layers. The recent project Floating Arboretum by Oto Hudec presents a complex approach that not only connects different media and artistic collaborations – including a sound composition by Fero Király – but moves to the very edge of activism with a strong environmental message.
Around art, only a cautious whisper no longer needs to be heard – the gallery can become a place where we learn to express ourselves, to listen, and also to remain silent.
How do sound and silence inspire you? We are listening.
This year we have also prepared an article for you with various activity ideas: https://masumeleckecrevo.sk/?page_id=3284 You’re welcome!
Schedule:
The competition runs from September 2025 to May 2026, with binding registration closing on 20 December 2025.
Autumn / winter
Consultations on the works of registered teams.
January / February
Submission of works electronically via www.wetransfer.com.
February
12. 2. 2026 Online semi-final
May
28. 5. 2026 Exhibition opening at the East Slovak Gallery in Košice
29. 5. 2026 Final at the East Slovak Gallery in Košice
June
Meeting of the winning teams of the Czech, Slovak, and Hungarian competitions in one of the organizing galleries.
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The project runs under the auspices of the civic association Kultúrne Koncepty and partner institutions Bratislava City Gallery, Central Slovak Gallery and East Slovak Gallery.
This year’s project partners: Taylor Wessing, Europapier, IPčko, Na Peróne