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Call for Creative Proposals: Transform Urban Heat Data into Art in Utrecht 

3 min read • 30th October 2025

Urban ReLeaf invites artists, designers, performers, and creative practitioners to submit proposals for an exciting new opportunity in Utrecht, the Netherlands 

We’re offering a €2,500 commission to co-create a public artwork or experience that brings urban climate data to life through community engagement and creativity. 

Why this matters? 

Climate change affects everyone, but not equally. In the Utrecht neighborhoods of Kanaleneiland, Rivierenwijk, Ondiep, and Zuilen, residents have gathered data on temperature, humidity, and personal experiences of local heat.

These stories reveal how heat is felt differently across the city. Now, we want to turn that data into a creative experience that amplifies community voices, sparks dialogue and inspires climate action. 

What we’re looking for? 

An artist, collective, or community facilitator living or based in Utrecht who is passionate about people, urban climate, and creativity. If you enjoy working in co-creation with communities, this opportunity is for you. 

We’re open to a wide range of formats, including: 

  • Photography and video 
  • Visual maps, paintings, or posters  
  • Traditional crafts (wood, clay, textiles)
  • Performances (dance, theatre, music, poetry)

Details: 

  • Budget: €2,500 (includes all fees, production, materials, and travel)
  • Location: Utrecht
  • Delivery timeline: Workshops in February–April 2026; exhibition in summer 2026
  • Deadline to apply: December 14, 2025
  • Interviews: January 5–9, 2026
  • Final selection announcement: January 15, 2026

What you’ll receive: 

  • Support from Urban ReLeaf, Green Neighborhood, Cool Neighborhood, and the Municipality and Province of Utrecht 
  • Access to data collected by residents (temperature, humidity and heat perception)
  • Facilitation and mentoring support for community engagement
  • Exhibition opportunity at Bibliotheek Neude in Utrecht
  • Promotion through Urban ReLeaf’s European networks

How to apply: 

Submit your proposal via the online form: 
https://forms.office.com/e/dWXuPz9BvA?origin=lprLink 

In your application, describe your creative idea, experience, and motivation, how you plan to involve the community, and what resources you need to make it happen. You can upload sketches or examples of previous work. 

Contact: 

For questions or more information, contact Esther van Leeuwen at 
esther.van.leeuwen@provincie-utrecht.nl or +31 6 18580944. 

Download our guidelines PDF for full submission details and evaluation criteria.