TEH Conference 99 in Sofia
This upcoming summer we are meeting in Sofia, Bulgaria, for the 99th time! We will be hosted by our member centre Toplocentrala - a central space for contemporary arts and a vital landmark in Sofia’s independent cultural scene.
The theme of this year's conference is BeHOME, Residencies on focus.
Why 'Be Home' ?
The world is becoming increasingly complex. It feels like the planet is spinning faster than ever.
A decade ago, thinking one thought at a time was enough; now juggling three thoughts at once feels normal. In our childhood, focusing on a single screen was more than sufficient. Now, we can follow three screens while answering a call, eating, drinking, and talking to others. The sheer volume of information we process daily today would have overwhelmed someone completely just a few decades ago."
Yet, despite having numerous "environments," well-furnished homes, endless choices, cozy cars, and countless friends on social networks, we often feel a sense of homelessness.
Who are we when everything around us begins to crumble? What do we do when it seems like everything is in decline?
Honey is at risk. Bees are endangered. Even beehives are in jeopardy.
And so are art, artists, and art centers. Or are we simply dreaming up an imaginary danger?
In this increasingly robotic world, what is the true purpose of art? What is the mission of artists? And what is the vital role of art centers in preserving our humanity?
BeHome and join us at Toplocentrala—a creation of Sofia City, TEH, and the local independent scene. Here, in a park, we are cultivating an artistic oasis for both the present and the future.
Sub-themes for BeHome
Curatorial and artistic practices that explore ecological crises. Relations between urban/rural spaces, community, art practice and ecology
Seeking intergenerational dialogue and breaking down age-related stereotypes within the art community.
Providing crucial platforms for voices that are underrepresented.
General Information
The ticket fee provides meals, coffee breaks, full access to the venue, and a conference gift.
- Early-bird fees for TEH Members only, 120€ - OPENING SOON!
- Regular fees for TEH Members, 160€
- Regular fees for non members, 180€
*If you are a Bulgarian resident write to info@toplocentrala.bg
We will draft an accurate guide for you in the next months!
Like in past years, we’re using Swapcard as the virtual space for the conference.
For now the page isn’t live yet but if you’ve used it before, you’ll just log in and access this year’s event and don't worry, your past connections will be there!
If it’s new to you, no stress! We’ll share a detailed guide soon to help you get started
If you have a question or need an invitation letter from us, please reach out to us at events@teh.net.
About the Host
Toplocentrala is a shared vision brought to life by independent artists and Sofia Municipality. Born in 2014, the project seeks to reimagine the former heat plant of the National Palace of Culture, a structure from 1981, as a vibrant Centre for Contemporary Arts—a space that embodies the spirit of a modern, inclusive, and dynamic European cultural hub.