the Artist & the Artisan … in CONVERGENCE2017

Con·vergence – kənˈvərjens – (n.)  1. the coming together from different directions so as eventually to meet. 2. a gradual change that results in things or people becoming similar or developing something in common.

During this curated residency, March 9 – April 5, 2017, Green Olive Arts hosted 8 international artists, from all disciplines, for 4 weeks in Morocco exploring the convergence of skills, patterns, influences and creativity shared by the artist & the artisan. An emphasis on collaboration and cross-pollination was encouraged towards new directions in expression and design by both the artist & the artisan. The selected artists for CONVERGENCE 2017 were from Bahrain, Pakistan, Australia, the Netherlands, Iceland, USA, and Canada.

Meet the Convergence 2017 Artists >>>

 

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The Artist & the Artisan

Globally, the fine craft of the artisan is fading with the passing of each generation skilled in the work of making beautiful and functional objects. CONVERGENCE 2017 aimed to open up the creative work of both the artist & the artisan in Morocco for the mutual encouragement and influence inevitable in the context of professional exchange. Artists in Residence had the opportunity to work alongside the artisans of Tetouan, Morocco, both in their local workshops and at the studios of Green Olive Arts. This gathering of international creatives includes painters, drawers, printmakers, sculptors, installation artists, writers, photographers, curators and graphic designers, who participated in facilitated dialogues and experienced the breadth of exploration into the treasures of craftsmanship in this ancient and changing land.

“Green Olive Arts is an extraordinary and innovative community-minded Arts Organisation. I believe their work and its approach is unprecedented and will change lives!”
— Niccy Pallant, Convergence 2017 AiR (Australia)