Gendaľipen

Art is a reflection of every society. It is a reflection (GENDAL'IPEN in Roma language) of the world as we see it or we wish to see it. It has the power to define, preserve and communicate individual ideas and collective cultural codes.

Cultural (including artistic) representation plays an important role in building ethnic (or other) identity, identity and self-esteem of the individual. Throughout history, artists have exercised their creative power to define themselves through art and create self-determination that reveals them and their respective society in the best possible light. For centuries, stereotypes and prejudices have had a negative impact on the position of the Roma and their culture and art. Roma art has been excluded from the mainstream for many centuries, misunderstood, simplified, and its artists have often been pushed to the background.

The aim of this project is to support Roma artists in their creation and presentation of professional Roma contemporary art through various activities and thus to show that Roma contemporary art and its artists wish to be seen and heard and that they have their full place in (not only Czech) culture and society.The project will carry out trainings for young Roma in the field of cultural management, entrepreneurship and technical skills, support artistic creation and enable them and other artists to present their art (art, music, dance, literary, alternative works and performances, etc.) at important cultural events for the general and professional public. Visitors will be informed about these events through media, social networks, websites, etc.

The events will take place in the Czech Republic (mainly at the World Festival of Roma Culture – Khamoro in Prague, but also in other cities of the CR), Norway and Iceland. We will train 24 persons, support 23 artists in their work, realize 57 cultural events for the public in cooperation with 652 artists for 70 500 visitors from the CR, Iceland and Norway.

Project period: May 2021 – April 2023

Locations: Prague, other cities of the Czech Republic (e.g. Rokycany city, Náchod city, Písek city apod.); Norway – Oslo, Iceland – Reykjavík