More information
Description
The project combines the mobility of writers with audience building and helps spread awareness of the original Icelandic and Czech literature abroad. It involves writers from Norway and Czechia. The project’s purpose is, among other, to convey current thinking about the European context, disrupt stereotypes, explain and connect.
It contrasts the growing uniformity of the media landscape with free literary creativity which brings forward opinions and reflects on important issues with an analytical and expressive strength that enables to capture and uncover significant connections.
31 Norwegian authors will join their colleagues from the Czech Republic and other European countries to participate in the project including dozens of authors’ readings and associated events. The outputs will include a book of essays introducing the Norwegian authors’ thinking about their country, a audiovisual anthology tracing contemporary Norwegian literature, and a audiovisual documentation archive providing a snapshot of the culture and society of Norway from the perspective of its literary elite.
The cornerstone of the project will be the 24th edition of the Authors’ Reading Month (ARM) festival, which will include 31 Norwegian authors as guests of honour. The ARM festival was first held in 2000 in Brno and gradually spread to other towns and countries. In Czechia, it takes place in Brno and Ostrava, while simultaneous events are held in Bratislava, Prešov and Lviv. The Norwegian edition will also take place in Oslo.
Thanks to its extensive scope, the festival keeps on going throughout the whole year, culminating in July and August when it constantly moves from place to place for 31 days on end. The main programme will include two lines: domestic and international, with the latter introducing the literature of the guest country, i.e. Norway, in the year 2023.
Summary of project results
The project addresses the need for deeper literary and cultural exchange between Czechia and Norway, promoting independent expression and critical thinking across Europe. The main challenge networks and translating diverse voices. The project tackles complex issues like the crisis of Western civilization and press freedom, offering fresh perspectives beyond typical political narratives.
The project focused on promoting literary and cultural exchange between Czechia and Norway. Key activities included the organization of the Authors'' Reading Month festival (in Brno, Ostrava, Oslo), which brought together authors from both countries to engage in readings, discussions, and workshops. The project produced an anthology of Norwegian essays and a series of audio-visual essays documenting Norwegian literature. Workshops, lectures, and thematic events, such as the Norwegian Summer School, were organized to foster a deeper understanding of Norwegian culture, targeting various audiences, including students, translators, and marginalized communities. These activities aimed to bridge cultural gaps, expand literary networks, and promote literature as a tool for inclusion and critical reflection. By engaging a diverse range of participants, the project cultivated lasting connections and highlighted the importance of literature in addressing social
issues.
The project strengthened the cultural exchange between the Czech Republic and Norway and included almost 100 readings, workshops and screenings. 31 Norwegian authors was introduced to Czech audience, the book with their texts was published (1000 cop.), and the audiovisual anthology Norwegian Reader was produced (audience of cca 1.2 mil.). The publications and online content of the project have significantly increased the engagement and visibility of Nordic literature in Central Europe.
Summary of bilateral results
Collaboration between partners facilitated the exchange of expertise, resources, and knowledge. Partners contributed to the selection of authors, promotional strategies, and the logistical organization of events, ensuring a seamless integration of diverse cultural perspectives. The involvement of partners was crucial in amplifying the project''s visibility and impact. For instance, public broadcasters helped promote the festival, reaching a wider audience and fostering greater interest in both Norwegian and Czech literature. Academic institutions provided valuable insights into the literary landscape, ensuring the program''s relevance and depth. Ultimately, the synergy between partners not only strengthened the project''s foundation but also paved the way for future collaborations, establishing a sustainable framework for ongoing cultural dialogue between Czechia and Norway.The partnership resulted in significant achievements, including 62 readings in Brno and Ostrava, and 15 in Oslo, plus presentations in these cities. The series Norwegian Reader was screened, featuring 16 episodes in Brno and in Oslo, with two evenings dedicated to discussions between authors and Scandinavianists. The collaboration also led to the publication of a book (Thought Atlas: Norway) with texts by Norwegian authors, with a print run of 1,000 copies. These activities helped foster mutualunderstanding, broaden cultural perspectives, and reinforced literary exchanges, leading to shared outcomes and a wider impact on both audiences and participants.