A call for research-led cultural projects
We are inviting proposals for projects to be programmed as part of Medieval Afterlives, a Cultural Programme season taking place in Trinity Term 2028.
We are looking for ambitious, imaginative projects that explore the relationship between the medieval past and contemporary creativity. Proposals should be research-led or research-connected and may request investment of up to £10,000.
Projects might include talks, workshops, literature, spoken word, craft, dance, drama, music, film, or other forms of creative and cultural activity. We particularly welcome ideas that bring researchers together with artists, practitioners, cultural organisations and communities.
About Medieval Afterlives
The focus of Medieval Afterlives will be on contemporary creativity, while also celebrating and exploring Oxford’s extraordinary medieval resources where appropriate – including our manuscripts, instruments, objects, architecture and spaces.
We want the season to be ambitious and international, while also engaging grassroots and local communities, particularly schools and young people. It should be wide-ranging, inclusive, accessible, innovative and fun.
Alongside high-profile writers and artists, we want to celebrate creativity at every level, including the work of students and communities.
Who can apply?
This call forms part of the Cultural Programme at the Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities and is intended for proposals connected to University of Oxford research.
Applicants should refer to the main Cultural Programme Open Call webpage for full information about eligibility, the Cultural Programme, the review process, planning requirements and other guidance.
What are we looking for?
For this call, we are particularly interested in projects that:
- make a strong and imaginative connection between contemporary creativity and the medieval past;
- are inspired by, led by or meaningfully connected to research;
- have a clear public-facing dimension;
- contribute to an inclusive, accessible and wide-ranging season;
- create opportunities to reach communities within and beyond the University, including schools and young people where appropriate;
- can be delivered as part of the Medieval Afterlives season in Trinity Term 2028; and
- require Cultural Programme investment of no more than £10,000.
Proposals should be made via the Cultural Programme Open Call process, details of which can be found on the Humanities Division website. Proposals should include “Medieval Afterlives” followed by a prospective title in the “Project Title” box on the proposal form.
Expressions of Interest Deadline: Monday 11 January 2027, 12pm
Questions? If you would like to discuss a potential proposal before applying, please contact Justine Shaw (Senior Ops Manager) in the first instance:
justine.shaw@humanities.ox.ac.uk
We encourage applicants to get in touch at an early stage if they would like to discuss an idea, potential collaborators, or how their project might fit within the Medieval Afterlives season.
