Parallel Panels Bucheon–Melbourne literature exchange programme

Parallel Panels is calling for applications from graphic storytellers for a residency and virtual writers’ room between Bucheon, Korea, and Melbourne, Australia. 

Parallel Panels is an exchange programme between Bucheon City of Literature and Melbourne City of Literature, in partnership with RMIT University, for graphic storytellers. The exchange programme comprises a residency exchange and a virtual writers’ room. 

Residency 

A graphic storyteller (one from Bucheon and one from Melbourne) will spend a fortnight in their sister city. During this time, they will work on a project of their choosing and the Parallel Panels project.

They will be required to be part of a public event and a workshop of their choosing, in negotiation with the host City.

The program will run in September 2025. Please note that the two-week period dates will be negotiated with the resident.

The successful resident will have their travel and accommodation paid for and receive an 2,000 AUD stipend.  

Virtual writers’ room

Hosted by local comic artist, editor, performer and presenter Bernard Caleo, the Parallel Panels online writers’ room is a space for graphic storytellers to connect, share and compare their work.  

The writer’s room will run every Wednesday from 28 January 2026 until 4 March 2026.

Each participant will receive 1,500 AUD. 

Parallel Panels application guidelines 

Deadline: 9 June 2025