The project of the Nefes Culture and Arts Association aims to transform the traditional Cenani Palace in Gaziantep into a culture and fine arts academia, as well as a public space. This initiative seeks to enhance the cultural landscape of the area and provide a platform for artistic expression and community engagement. The aim is to establish a safe and adaptable environment for children, youth, academics, students, aspiring musicians, and artists, as well as cultural activists from various backgrounds, where they can learn and exchange ideas and knowledge. The association, established by cultural professionals from Syria and Türkiye, aims to foster social solidarity and harmony through its projects. It seeks to create a culture and art space that is open to all segments of society.
Education programmes in music, dance, painting, theatre, and calligraphy for children and youth.
Chance to exhibit 20 different artists’ works across 6 art exhibitions.
One of the cultural objectives of the project is to organise concerts on different scales to reach wider audiences.
Aims to enhance artistic and cultural skills with 9 workshops.
The objective is to improve communal adaptation and increase accessibility to art through various cultural activities.
Nefes was founded in 2016 by music and art professionals from Syria and Türkiye and officialized in 2017.
Nefes believes in equality in artistic and cultural expressions from people of all nationalities. It recognizes the psychological trauma, isolation, and identity issues faced by individuals and its role in creating a permanent and inclusive society. Nefes presents itself as a cultural institution that respects different cultural inheritances and protects this inheritance’s power and trust. The project draws inspiration from the diverse backgrounds of team members, leveraging their cultural and academic knowledge. This approach aims to ensure that cultural heritage, restoration, and folkloric elements remain authentic. In parallel with this approach, Nefes aims to create new artistic experiences that help protect and enrich cultural artworks and tools.
Nefes is experienced in cultural and artistic fields in Gaziantep. Achieved success in cultural adaptation with projects like “Bir Umut Olsun” and “İki Dil Bir Nefes,” which include artistic education for local children, youths, and immigrants.
Will provide spaces for workshops, logistic support, and being included in the presentation actions.
Gaziantep University
Will provide academic support and create educational workshops that include the Fine Arts Faculty’s academics and the use of the Cenani Palace during the project timeframe.
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