Connect ME is collaborative digital residency programme focused on connecting artists aged 18-30 based in the GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia) and the United Kingdom.
It was devised as a way to stimulate international connections and creativity despite the restrictions on movement that the COVID-19 pandemic enforced throughout 2020.
Over a four-week digital “residency”, Connect ME pairs an artist based in the UK with an artist based in the GCC, to create new, collaborative work that considers how digital tools can encourage connectivity across borders.
The results could be anything from an augmented reality experience to a short film, a zine, a live performance – the only stipulation is it must be delivered to the public through digital channels.
The first Summer Residency ran from July – August 2020. Following an open call, the artists selected were Rawan AlMahrouqi (Oman) and Alexis Maxwell (UK), and Alaa Tarabzouni (KSA) and Ellie Niblock (UK). The Residency mentor was Dr Alfredo Cramerotti, director of MOSTYN Gallery in North Wales.
The Winter Residency will run from January – February 2021. Following an open call, the artists selected were Dina Khatib (UAE) and Ollie Cameron (UK), and Meshal Al-Obaidallah (KSA) and Carolin Schnurrer (UK). This edition of the Connect ME residency will be led by mentor Manal AlDowayan, a multi-media artist from Saudi Arabia who is equally recognised for her work in sound, video, neon, and sculpture.
Connect ME Projects | مشاريع الفنانين
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