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
1966
Warhol’s film Chelsea Girls is a commercial success, offering an unedited glimpse into the daily lives of several Factory Superstars. Later it is considered an influential forerunner of reality TV.