Our mission is to generate a context of education, research and training in the observation of stars, constellations and planets, in order to create a more direct relationship with the visible sky. We will have a transdisciplinary approach through the different historical, mythological, symbolic and philosophical visions of the sky, as well as fundamental astronomical knowledge.

Through the practice of the body in space and systematic orientation, we will seek to lay the foundations of new perceptions, in the learning of bodily experience. Ancient astronomical and contemporary astrological bases will help us to enrich our gaze and rethink our presence on earth.

The project is called The league of stars, emphasizing the meaning of the word “league” as “that which unites”, in this case with the stars. Proposing in first place an astrological retreat, a practice of leaving the usual parameters of time, daily life and obligations, to enter into a magical or sacred timeline determined by the rhythms of the sky. And secondly as an artistic residency, creating a proper context to research and stimulation in the transdisciplinary creative process. Anyone interested in making a creative process in relation to the sky can apply.

The Program

The program is divided into two parts: day and night.

During the day we’ll focus on individual processes, everyone can be free to organize their day as they like with the activities available: library and readings, walks, swimming, yoga, visiting sites, producing some kind of work, collecting materials, images, sounds, resting or whatever is part of the life practices of each participant.

Meals will be organized around common sharing. Breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner will be provided, with specificities in each case that may be required.

Optional activities: each participant can propose different daytime activities, practices or workshops according to their area of expertise. In this way, it’s possible for each participant to bring their uniqueness to nurture the intelligence of the group. These activities will be planned in advance and organized together when each group arrives at the house.

During the night we’ll focus on group activities through the training program and sky gazing. Each night after sunset we’ll have classes of approximately 3 hours with a focus on the visible bodies and constellations, the cardinal points and the understanding of space. Learning night by night to recognize the stars and grasp the magnitude of the constellations, with their myths, history and symbolism as well as logically follow the lunar phases.

Likewise, we’ll take a look at the positions of the stars of each participant at the moment of their birth, in order to generate a specific link with those particular stars.

We will talk about the tradition around the fixed stars in astrology and its application in contemporary readings, introducing you to the different authors and interpretation techniques around the subject.

Each group will be organized according to the affinity of interests and proposals, in addition to the language spoken by the participants. There will be groups in English and Spanish.

Place & Rates EGYPT

The residency is located in a fascinating glamping site in the Sahara desert, a very diverse area in southwest of Cairo, approximately four hours from the airport (CAI). Between the white desert and the black desert, in a national park area, ideal territory for the darkness of the sky without light pollution.

Residents may arrive at Cairo Airport (CAI). Upon arrival, they will be provided with a private shuttle service from the airport to our first stop in Giza, which offers an incredible view. We will spend the first night there. Early the next morning, a local guide will be ready to accompany the group on a visit to the pyramids and the Sphinx. After lunch, we will head to the desert in the afternoon for an adventure under the deep sky.

We will spend the nights observing and studying the deep sky in the Sahara, with all its diversity. Towards the adventure of the stars in the deep sky. Being nourished by the best Bedouin cuisine.

Dates first week: 28th of October to 4th of November.

The program has a cost that includes all expenses for meals, transfers to the desert by car and lodging. As well as the evening class program.

The goal is that the residents don’t have to worry about anything during their stay. Rates are also in relation to retreats in the area, taking care of every detail and offering the best price.

There are two types of rooms, all with private bathroom, Bedouin (concrete) and Starry (domes), all well equipped, where the imposing of the desert is combined with the highest level of comfort.

How to Apply

All applications will be received only by email to: info@theleagueofstars.com

With the subject: Application 

Applications can be made in English for Egypt and English or Spanish for Greece.

To apply is very easy, send us:

1. BIO – Statement (All you want to tell us about your work and practice).
2. Letter of interest in the residency – Why do you want to participate? How do you feel this experience may enrich your practice?. Relax, don’t get too complicated with this, we just want to know more about you. Simplicity and sincerity are the most important (Max 500 words).
3. Link to social media or websites.
4. Specification if you have any meal requirements: vegan, celiac, vegetarian, any type of allergies, etc.

For Egypt: classes will be in English // For Greece: You can choose, English or Spanish.

Who can apply

Anyone interested in researching and creating some kind of work related to the sky, the territory, and the body.

We welcome researchers, historians, philosophers, astrologers, as well as artists of all disciplines: visual, literary, sound, performative, audiovisual, digital, etc, of all nationalities.

The transdisciplinary and transcultural crossover is fundamental in the development of new perspectives. If your profession isn’t in this list but you are interested in developing some kind of creative process in relation to the sky from your field of expertise, please do not hesitate to apply and show us your unique way of seeing the world.

DEADLINES EGYPT

DEADLINES GREECE

• Early birds: November 31st 2024 

• Final deadline: January 31st 2025

Contact

If you have any questions, please contact us via email at: info@theleagueofstars.com

Follow us on IG to stay updated: @theleagueofstars