Over the last few years, the Promenade Culture Centre has become a haven for budding artists, a place where creativity flows freely and connections are forged. The PCC is an eclectic space dedicated to nurturing artistic talent and celebrating the power of human connections, which happens to be the theme for the second Visionary Lab residency, with artists working in studios on site. The PCC has also had three mural residencies so far.
This year, the first of the two artists selected for the residency, Adel Ashkanani, a multimedia artist with a penchant for photography and music, explores the theme of connection through nostalgia. By preserving childhood memories in stone objects, Adel seeks to capture the fleeting nature of time and emotion. The second artist selected, Razan AlSarraf, a visual artist, curator, and educator, delves into the interactions between people and landscape, offering a nuanced perspective on the theme of connection.
The culmination of PCC’s residencies is often a vibrant exhibition, where artists have the opportunity to showcase their work to the public. The latest exhibition, titled “Memoryscapes,” features the works of Razan AlSarraf and Adel Ashkanani, two local artists whose interpretations of connectivon are as diverse as they are captivating. From nostalgic reflections to explorations of landscape and identity, the exhibition invites viewers to contemplate the myriad ways in which we connect with the world around us.
Why the theme of connection, you may ask? Well, according to the folks at PCC, it’s all about exploring the intricate web of relationships that shape our world. From the bonds we share with our community to the connections we form with ourselves, the theme of connection permeates every aspect of life. By delving into this theme, PCC aims to not only showcase the artwork of emerging artists but also to foster a sense of connection among its patrons.
We wanted to catch up with the artists and hear a little bit about their journeys. Adel Ashkanani tells us that “My journey with art initially started when I was much younger. After being enrolled in piano class, I found it to be a form of communication, expressing thoughts without words being used. This has influenced the way I perceive and create things to this day. Over the years, my practice has evolved by exploring different mediums, subjects and ideas, from painting and film, to photography and sculpting.”
“Art does not happen in a vacuum. We are all vital and important components of our own collective liberation, and everything one makes/ creates/ produces is inherently political. It is extremely important to acknowledge the times we’re in right now, where a genocide is happening live before our eyes in Palestine – our brothers and sisters need our attention and advocacy, and we cannot stay silent. In my lifetime, I hope to see an end to the occupation and a free Palestine,” explains Razan AlSarraf about art.
But how does PCC go about choosing its artists and guiding them through the creative process? Well, it starts with a vision. Curator Shahad Bishara, along with the team at Visual Therapy, works closely with artists to develop a brief that aligns with PCC’s mission and goals. Through ongoing feedback and support, artists are encouraged to explore the theme of connection in their own unique way, resulting in a diverse range of artistic expressions.
“Our partner is Visual Therapy @visualtherapy, whose founder and curator Shahad Bishara beautifully understands our mission and goals when it comes to providing safe spaces for artists to create. Over these past residencies, Shahad has helped us shape the programme and select the artists, she has a rich knowledge of Kuwait’s artistic scene. We have decided to have an open call for the current residency which resulted in more than 70 applications, which is a great sign that we are positioning our Centre as open and welcoming to artists. The Visionary Lab residency is a funded opportunity for two locally based artists,” Ksenia Graovac, the PCC manager, shares.
What we love is that as the PCC continues to evolve, exciting projects lie on the horizon. From mural residencies to children’s and youth programs, PCC remains committed to its mission of supporting and promoting the arts in Kuwait. With plans to open a small library and explore the world of podcasting, PCC aims to expand its reach and engage with audiences in new and innovative ways.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us embrace the power of artistic expression to bridge divides, foster understanding, and celebrate the rich tapestry of human experience. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or an art enthusiast, PCC invites you to join the conversation and explore the myriad ways in which we connect with the world around us.
If you are as interested as we are, the artists will be showcasing their work at the PCC. The exhibition named Memoryscapes will open 24 April in the Main Hall of PCC, at 6pm. Continue to stay up to date with how the Promenade Culture Centre is transforming the culture scene in Kuwait, and see their latest mural unveiled, follow @pcckuwait. You can also follow the journey of the artists on Instagram, Razan AlSarraf @razanalsarraf, and Adel Ashkanani @sikraabi.
