Approaching Community

Approaching Community

The third edition of Al Riwaq’s annual symposium explores the connection between artistic practice and the communities that nurture them. This forum will facilitate a dialogue on Art and the Community, touching on the role of education in community engagement and building as well as the impact of grassroots initiatives and collectives. 

The discussions will explore manifestations of participatory art, challenges and best practices for cultural institutions, as well as platforms and engagement avenues for collectives and community initiatives. 

Please click here for the Symposium agenda

Programme: 

  • Opening Remarks: Al Riwaq Art Space
  • Session 1: Education and Community

This panel discusses the role of education and guided experiences in community engagement and community building, as well as creating dialogue, and preserving and documenting histories and cultural practices. 

  • Speakers:
    • Bayan Al Barrak Kanoo
    • Ala Younis
    • Farah Mattar 
  • Session 2: Art and Community 

This panel discusses the role of art and design in transforming communities, and the impact of outreach initiatives towards creating more accessibility to art. The conversations explore the uses of public and participatory art as a tool for community building, and as well as how cultural context can shape the work of artists and their relationship with the local communities.  

  • Speakers:
    • Amana Collective
    • Design Majlis
    • Maryam Al Noaimi

For registration, please visit this link. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the residency only for visual arts?

No, it is open to all artists from different disciplines.

How long is the residency programme?

12 working weeks, from 28 January to 28 April 2024.

Please note the residency will coincide with the holy month of Ramadan as well as the Eid Holidays. Studio opening hours will be adjusted as appropriate during that period. 

Will there be an exhibition at the end of the residency?

Yes, participants' artwork and projects will be showcased in an exhibition at the end of the residency. The exhibition concept will be formulated and developed in discussion with the artists in residence. 

The exhibition will be developed in collaboration with Al Riwaq’s curation team, led by William Wells, and will open on 25 June 2024. 

Does this programme support research residencies?

Al Riwaq is open to receiving research-based resident artists, within Application 003 or independently. 

Artists seeking the unfamiliar around the corner, are welcome to apply for a  research-driven residency that can revolve around peer-to-peer exchange, and knowledge and understanding, not just in the arts but also in society.

Is there an age restriction for the applicants?

This residency is open for all above 18 years of age.