Advanced Textile Program takes a sabbatical in 2026 and will return in a renewed form in 2027

After careful consideration and thorough reflection, the TextielMuseum | TextielLab has decided not to organise the Advanced Textile Program (ATP) in 2026. As a result, no open call will be issued this year. The aim is to return in 2027 with a future-proof edition of ATP that builds upon the strength, impact, and international significance the programme has established over the past five years.

Over recent years, the Advanced Textile Program has developed into an international platform where experimentation, talent development, dialogue, and critical reflection come together through textile practice. Both within and beyond the TextielLab, the programme has established a strong reputation as a space where new generations of makers explore the boundaries of the discipline, in direct exchange with the expertise, machinery, and technical knowledge of the lab.

A recent evaluation of the programme presents an overwhelmingly positive and widely shared perspective. Through conversations with participants, colleagues, and partners, complemented by survey responses, it has become clear that ATP has grown significantly over the past five years in terms of impact, reach, and international relevance. During this period, the number of participants has also gradually expanded, allowing the programme to evolve further and broaden its scope.

The evaluation further confirms that ATP is regarded by participants, partners, and colleagues as a highly valuable driver for exchange, research, and talent development within the textile field. This significance and impact provide an important foundation for the programme’s continued development.

After five successful years, this marks a natural moment to reflect on the future development of the programme and to explore how ATP can be further strengthened to align even more closely with the ambitions of the TextielMuseum | TextielLab, as well as with ongoing developments within the international textile sector.

This ambition connects directly to the broader strategic direction of the TextielMuseum | TextielLab, which in the coming years will place an even stronger emphasis on talent development and on further strengthening the position of both the museum and the TextielLab as internationally leading centres of expertise in the field of textile.

This interim period creates space to translate these ambitions into a renewed framework for the Advanced Textile Program. Particular attention will be given to the balance between online and in-person components, the role of mentorship and collaboration, and the programme’s connection to international developments within textile, design, and contemporary art.

The coming year will therefore be dedicated to further developing the programme, enabling ATP to once again contribute to talent development and international exchange at the highest level from autumn 2027 onwards.

In the meantime, the TextielMuseum | TextielLab remains fully committed to talent development and to supporting a new generation of designers and artists working within the textile field. This commitment continues through internships, residency opportunities, collaborations with specialist educational institutions, selected graduation projects, and presentations showcased on the Panoramadeck.

Would you like to stay informed? Updates regarding the Advanced Textile Program will be shared through our newsletter and social channels. The open call for the renewed ATP can be expected in spring 2027.