Relevant Response

What can cultural institutions do in times of political conflict, with war and violence taking place across the world? How do we define our role and respond in a way that’s relevant? What helpful practices can we share with each other? Who should we involve in that process? What are the vulnerabilities of doing so? And are we able to develop practices that aligns with our principles as an institution and which we can apply in similarly, future situations?

This spring, we will be looking for answers to these questions together in a triptych of episodes at Pakhuis de Zwijger. We will make an inventory of what is needed and through holding conversations and panels, we will offer a meeting platform for anyone and everyone – from art and cultural institutions, to people with a refugee background – anyone who is interested, is welcome.

Over the next few weeks, we will explore the following in three episodes:

April 19th, 8-10pm – Mapping Capabilities: What role do cultural institutions play in times of war; what shortcomings do we have and what are the best practices?

In this first episode, together with other Amsterdam institutions, including Framer Framed, Foam and De Meervaart, we look for best practices and the (recognition) of shortcomings. In doing so, we seek answers to the question: How can Amsterdam cultural organizations respond in a relevant way to global war and conflict situations?

May 17th 8-10pm – Mapping Necessities: What kind of concrete help do artists & organizations with a refugee background need?

We will start with a conversation about how we identify ourselves through told stories and how that affects our solidarity. A conversation will take place between maker Lisette Ma Neza and writer Karin Amatmoekrim based on her last written piece. They will discuss the necessity of self recognition in refugees as a (faulty) fundament for solidarity. There will be poetry continuing on the topic of identity and refugee status. Following up the conversation, a dialogue will be led interacting with the audience and a panel. The panel will share experiences from people in the art and culture sector who have experience in working together with and creating space for persons originating from a (post) conflict place. Speakers reflect on the lessons they’ve learned from these practices.

June 21st 8-10pm – City and Conflict: How do we look back on our own actions, what lessons have we learned from the two previous programs and how can we make our role more relevant?

All episodes are narrated in English, moderated by Sahar Shirzad.

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You can attent this event for free, physically or online. When making your reservation, choose between a physical spot or an online reservation.