Invites youth from the entire region to NUK

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NUK Foto: Martin Bremnes
Caption 
NUK Foto: Martin Bremnes

NUK – New Young Art is an inclusive, affordable, week-long festival in Harstad for youth between 14 – 20 years from the entire region. The goal is to provide creative youth from our vast region with an opportunity they rarely get, by meeting other creatives, creating networks, and perhaps shaping new artists in the north. The festival accommodates individuals with disabilities (14-40 years).

- Several artists and creators from the region have started their careers at the festival. Now we invite new talents and interested individuals to a unique experience from June 22 to June 29," says NUK-chief Tine Skjold. There is a low participation fee, and if you submit the application form before April 30, the fee is halved.
Sign up via the NUK page.

THE BEST WEEK OF THE YEAR

One of the main goals of NUK is for young people to have the opportunity to try and develop their knowledge in various artistic expressions. In 2024, participants can engage in photography, songwriting, bands and composition, hip-hop + theater, electronic music, and urban visual art. The festival has been organized since 1992 and is known as "the best week of the year" for everyone who has participated over the years.
- "During the festival, the youths stay together at a school in Harstad. They participate in creative workshops during the day, and many make friends and memories for life. They also get to work with some of the country's best artists and educators who are engaged as instructors and developers of the workshops. As a bonus, the participants get to see festival performances for free, as long as there is space," says the NUK-chief. She adds that there is a 24-hour manned secretariat with experienced people present throughout the festival, ensuring a safe environment for those choosing to stay at the school.

THE FIRST DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION IS APRIL 30

In the past, the first-come, first-served principle was the norm at NUK, but the festival has made some experiences in recent years that have led them to change this:
- "All groups at NUK should be well mixed and consist of participants with different skills, backgrounds, and experiences. Diversity, therefore, is in focus and is a necessity for NUK to be NUK. At the same time, we must ensure that the groups are assembled in a way that each individual has a good experience and opportunity for professional and social development. The first-come, first-served principle is therefore omitted in most cases so that we can ensure better care for everyone," says Skjold.

When asked how the applications are assessed and processed, she replies:
- "We process the applications based on 2 main factors: The information, wishes, and needs you provide, and an overall consideration in terms of group composition. It is primarily I, as the leader of NUK, who processes the applications in close dialogue with a multidisciplinary team consisting of artists, educators, and social workers. Everyone has confidentiality, but we can sign specific forms if needed. In that case, just contact us," says Skjold.

EARLY REGISTRATION STILL PAYS OFF

The processing of the first applications will take place between May 2 and May 9. You need to have submitted your application before April 30 for it to be considered in this round. Applications received after April 30 are processed continuously after the first allocation round. Skjold also emphasizes that it's still important to apply early if you want to be as sure as possible of getting a spot in the workshop you want:
- "In cases where two applicants are equally suitable for a place in the same workshop, the one who registered first will get the spot. You also get a 50% discount on the participation fee if you submit the form before April 30. So, it still pays to register early," says Skjold.

She further stresses that you will be contacted to find a suitable workshop for you if you do not get a place in your first or second choice:
- "We try every year to accommodate as many as possible with the resources we have available, and will do everything we can to find a suitable workshop for everyone this year too. In cases where all workshops are full, there is a waiting list," concludes Skjold.