Hessen-Wisconsin Writers Exchange Program

The German state of Hessen, through its Ministry of Sciences and Arts and the Hessen Literary Society, is offering an opportunity for a Wisconsin writer of poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction to live and work in Wiesbaden, Germany (the capital of Hessen), for three months' time. Lodging will be provided free of charge, along with a stipend of 1,000 Euros per month. The writer is responsible for travel and any other expenses. While in Germany, the writer will have plenty of time for writing, but also is expected to make himself/herself available to the literary community and the general public in Hessen. This will involve participation in workshops, giving presentations and readings, working with schools, and taking opportunities to work toward strengthening ties between Wisconsin and Hessen citizens. Some German language ability is desired but not required. This opportunity is being provided as part of the Hessen-Wisconsin sister state relationship. The residency in Germany is funded by the Hessen Literary Society (Literaturrat), which is based in Wiesbaden.

TIMELINE
The application process for the next program is closed. Please check back in spring 2012 or contact Gerhard Fischer at 608-267-9265 for more details.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Who does the selecting?
   A Hessen-Wisconsin Writers Exchange steering committee will select finalists under the auspices of the Wisconsin-based Hessen-Wisconsin Society. The final selection is made by the Hessen Literary Society in Wiesbaden. The steering committee consists of representatives from organizations including the Hessen-Wisconsin Society, the Wisconsin Arts Board, the Wisconsin Humanities Council, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of German, and the Max Kade Institute at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
2. Who makes travel arrangements?
   The winning writer arranges and pays for his/her own travel.
3. Where will the writer stay?
   An apartment will be provided by the Hessen Literary Society. This lodging arrangement does not include meals.
4. What groups will assist in building ties to the Germany literary community?
   The writer will be given contact information of various interested groups (cultural organizations, schools, bookstores). Many of these cultural entities will also contact the writer. The official sponsoring organization in Germany is the Hessen Literary Society, which will provide advice and assistance. Other groups include the German Writers Union (Hessen chapter); Amerika Haus, an organization dedicated to enhancing German-American cultural relations; and “Literaturhaeuser,” particularly Villa Clementine, an arts venue in Wiesbaden. The writer will, however, be expected to find his/her way around, make arrangements, and structure his/her own time.
5. How far do 1,000 Euros a month get you?
   The exchange rate fluctuates; currently one Euro is worth $1.40. Daily expenses for things like
   food and transportation in the Wiesbaden area are much the same as in large metropolitan areas
   in the United States.