Exploring
"Gentrification, Arts, and Cultural Heritage" at the Sixth Annual
International Gathering of Artists in Fez, Morocco
Introduction: Every life story is a unique carpet woven with experiences and memories
that shape our identities. This performance lecture will explore the interplay
between gentrification, art, and cultural heritage via personal narratives.
Embarking on a journey through selected artworks and experiences, we will delve
deeper into the themes of change, memory, and preserving creative spaces. The lecture
vibe will consider creative spaces equal to physical and mental places.
By taking a closer look into personal
experiences and artistic expression, this performance lecture focuses on
mainly three works: Void Time, Celebrating Time, and The Idling Mobile.
The lecture aims to open a space for reflection, dialogue, and collective
understanding. Through our discussions, I hope to share experiences of the
challenges we all face in preserving our creative environments and contribute
to the ongoing conversation about the impacts of urban transformation.
Focus of the Talk:
The Ausstellungsexhibition (exhibition
installation) void time, was selected by Sophia Gräfe and Arkadij Koscheew to be shown at their
exhibition “On Equal Terms” during the Art Week 2022 in the Uferhallen Berlin
wedding. 54 artists were creating a collective memory out of the fragile moment
of discovering a creation that felt like an art piece for the very first time.
 |
| Void Time, Installation,Uferhallen, Berlin 2022 |
The exhibition and the place that invited
this installation were loaded with history:
Indeed, the Uferhallen in Berlin's Wedding district has become a focal point in
the ongoing gentrification debate. Artists who have long occupied their studios
within the Uferhallen are now facing the challenge of preserving their creative
spaces against the pressure from investors and potential development projects.
This clash embodies a more significant issue of cultural displacement as these
artists strive to maintain the unique character and vibrancy of the area
against the encroachment of commercial interests. The struggle highlights the
tension between the preservation of artistic and cultural heritage and the
forces driving urban transformation and increased property values. But this is
the story of the artist collectively fighting there.
"Celebrating Time “, a
performance/happening inside the installation void time. A piece that takes us
on a journey back to the era of Berlin house parties. A nostalgic reflection on
the past, this piece invokes memories of open parties and communal experiences
that defined an era. It encapsulates a sense of freedom and exploration,
sometimes escapism. Yet, this reflection is tinged with the realization that
these moments have transformed due to gentrification's relentless march.
Reshaping the urban landscape and how people interact with their time, places,
and strangers, especially considering the growing financial pressure to live
and surrender.
 |
The Idling Mobile, lecture Kitchentalks, Städl Schule Frankfurt2015 |
Furthering the exploration, we encounter
the concept of the idling mobile, a self-organized artist residency. Here,
personal experiences intertwine with the overarching theme of gentrification and
cultural heritage preservation. This residency serves as a testament to the
resilience of artists against the backdrop of urban change. Through the idling
mobile, artists reclaim agency over their spaces, echoing the sentiment of
resistance that runs through the struggle against gentrification.
Ultimately, these narratives illustrate
the profound interplay between individual creativity, urban transformation, and
cultural heritage. By sharing these experiences, we aim to foster a nuanced
understanding of artists' challenges in preserving their creative sanctuaries
within the currents of gentrification. These stories collectively contribute to
the ongoing dialogue concerning preserving artistic and cultural diversity in
the face of urban metamorphosis.
BACKGROUND:
The 6th Annual International Artists Gathering of Fez Explores “Gentrification, Arts, and Cultural Heritage”
The renowned Annual International Gathering of Artists returns to Fez, Morocco for its sixth edition with a powerful theme: "Gentrification, Arts, and Cultural Heritage.” Hosted by the Fez Gathering, this dynamic event brings together Moroccan and global artists, featuring a range of exhibitions, panel discussions, workshops, and live demonstrations. The event serves as a unique platform, allowing the local artistic community of Fez to present their work to a broader international audience.
This year, the Fez Gathering delves into the role of art in addressing the pressing challenges of gentrification. Attendees can expect a rich tapestry of art installations, performances, and activities, all spotlighting the transformative potential of art and culture in urban spaces. The discussions will also tackle the balance of rejuvenating urban areas without sidelining the communities often linked with gentrification. In doing so, the event aspires to foster intergenerational dialogues, spotlight the contemporary Moroccan art scene, and amplify emerging Moroccan artists, all against the backdrop of Fez—a city that has historically been a bridge between diverse worlds.
Beyond the aesthetics, the Fez Gathering will ignite discussions around the role of arts beyond its intrinsic value. The debate will encompass the interplay between arts, cultural heritage, market forces, and religious dynamics, aiming to understand how art can pave the way for a hopeful future.
The Fez Gathering was conceived in 2015 by Omar Chennafi, a Fez native and notable Moroccan artist and photographer. The ethos of each Gathering is to bolster dialogue and deeper engagement within the arts. This year's participants will be immersed in insightful workshops and discussions centered on the “Gentrification and Cultural Heritage” narrative.
In alignment with the festival's spirit, entry is complimentary for all, and post-event feedback from attendees is highly encouraged. The four-day event will be widely covered across social media platforms, featuring artist interviews and participant interactions.
This stellar event is made possible through collaborations with partners such as The Goethe Institute in Rabat, Institut Français in Fez, American Language Center of Fez, Noujoum Center, The Fes Medina Project, Kan Ya Makan Center, among others.
http://www.fezgathering.com
