RawGround 2025/26

In our 6th edition, RAW Moves is pleased to open our annual call for local and international artists to submit proposals for the next edition of RawGround (RG) 2025/26, which will be running in February 2026*.

Presented by RAW Moves in Singapore, RawGround is designed to present a curated mini film showcase that fosters dialogue and broadens our perception of social norms. The short films, created by artists and practitioners from various disciplines, each reframe the aesthetics of the everyday through the lens of the
individual. We welcome unorthodox, conceptual works of narratives that redefine movement.

Applicants are invited to conceptualise and create two new original short films~, responding to this edition’s theme of “(Un)finished Work: In pursuit of the work of pretending”.

The Theme

The first of RAW Moves’ three-year exploration of “(Un)finished Work: In pursuit of ______” themes, we delve into the paradigm of “pretending”:

In the work of “pretending”, we explore the labour of balancing appearances and reality. As we externalise the self to connect with others, we find these efforts can come at costs to ourselves. Going inward, what are the personas we believe we need to uphold? Going forward, what do we now shed – or shield – of ourselves?

The Process

Selected artist-collaborators will be offered artist fees from RAW Moves for the conceptualisation and creation of the two films, each ranging between 5 to 10 minute duration. In the staggered ten weeks creative process (From April 2025), each artist will be collaborating and supported by our Artistic Director and Resident Dramaturg to deliver two films. In addition to financial support, appointed artist-collaborators will be able to develop their portfolio, articulate ideas and enrich their creative processes through engaging diverse perspectives. This cultural exchange opportunity also offers visibility and chances to connect and interact with arts professionals and audiences from around the world.

The Presentation (3-days)

1. Film Screening Premiere, Singapore
  The final vignette of films will be launched at a physical screening session in Singapore^ in February 2026*, which will include post-show dialogues at the end of the screening.
2. Artists-led Workshops, Singapore
  Each artist is required to host a 15 to 20 pax in-person workshop (1 – 1.5hour) that will engage the local arts community as an extension of their films’ narrative and concept. The extended events also offer networking opportunities with fellow artist-collaborators and local audiences. Digital access to the films will be provided on www.rawground.sg for two weeks subsequent to the film launch for both local and international audiences.’

*Dates may be subjected to change.
~Films completed prior to the start of this project based on contractual date are not eligible for submission.
^Artists will need to fund their own trip to Singapore for the launch event.

Submission Information:

In your proposal submission, you will need to provide the following information:

Brief description of conceptual idea, design and storyboard.
Explain how the idea relates to the theme and why you think your film topic is relevant and
important.
Brief description of the workshop idea, format and objectives.
Profile(s), CV(s) or portfolio(s) of participating artist(s).
Any supporting documents as deemed fit such as, but not limited to, references, photos, proposal board with graphics, sketches.

Submission Deadline: 15 January 2025, 11:59 PM SGT (UTC+8)
Submission Fee: FREE

What is RawGround?

RawGround: 2 Films, 1 Conversation, promulgate a curated 10 day hybrid showcase that nurtures dialogue through the trajectory of widening our perception of daily life. The short films are conducted by artists and practitioners of diverse disciplines, each reinstating the scope of aesthetics of the everyday. As we ponder the beauty of life, RawGround stands as a platform for transformation and fostering a communion of thoughts and perspectives.

Why 2 Films, 1 Conversation?

2 Films, 1 Conversation explores the dynamic relationship between “two films” created by each artist from a single concept. The films may build on each other or exist in contrast, providing a spectrum of relationships – from alignment to opposition. The “1 conversation” extends beyond dialogue, focusing on discovering movement through film as a medium. This exploration deepens through curated workshops, where artists lead participants in diverse experiential learning activities.

2 Films, 1 Conversation invites audiences to reflect on the interplay between media and motion, blurring the lines between creator and viewer in a shared journey of discovery.

Micro-RawGround

As a touring initiative, Micro-RawGround extends the platform beyond Singapore, collaborating with artists each season to create innovative mini-series for international audiences. By promoting open-minded collaboration, we aim to explore new partnerships and expand creative possibilities.

In the past 5 editions, we have worked with a total of 40 artists from different disciplines including international collaborators from Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia, Netherlands, United Kingdom & Canada.

Redefining Movement

RawGround 2025/26

RAW Moves Ltd