Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq | 23 October 2011
A Partnership between ArtRole and the European Technology & Training Centre
This exhibition focused on the visual art practices of Kurdish artists based within the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. It established a vital platform for artists to engage in dialogue, sharing their collective experiences and future visions for the regional art scene. Furthermore, the initiative provided a unique opportunity to unite the local and international communities, particularly within the capital, through a shared cultural experience.
Historically, political complexities and fragmented artistic environments have made communication between artists across the region difficult. GATHERING served as a significant first step in bringing together artists from diverse geographic areas and generations, with the long-term intention of establishing this as a recurring annual event.
The participating artists represented the following cities: Khanaqin, Halabja, Kifri, Sulaymaniyah, Kirkuk, Koya, Ranya, Erbil, Duhok, and Zakho.
It was our hope that this event would encourage local authorities and international officials within the region to support such a significant cultural endeavour.