Beirut’s Ashkal Alwan is an organization that supports emerging and established artists by providing opportunities for the production exhibition and circulation of art and ideas through robust regional and international networks. It was founded nearly 25 years ago by Christine Tohme, whose expansive vision still guides it today. Its programs include an international gathering of artists and cultural practitioners, Home Works Forum, presented every three years; video production grants and mentoring for emerging artists; a residency; a publishing initiative and an experimental tuition-free educational platform for artists, Home Workspace. All of these activities are administered out of its facility in Beirut, which opened in 2010 and contains a multimedia research library, artists’ studios, an exhibition space, and a theater.
The Lebanese Association for Plastic Arts, Ashkal Alwan
“The Foundation’s commitment to supporting artists by funding the institutions that incubate, encourage, exhibit and critically engage their work is unwavering. Non-profit arts organizations face profound challenges due to the political, economic, social and cultural upheavals of our current moment. At the same time, and more than ever, artists need the supportive community and creative encouragement that these organizations provide.”
Joel Wachs, President