A Room for All

Abstract

In the last two decades, collaborative art praxes, sometimes categorised as participatory art, have become a staple of the global contemporary artworld. Some might consider them the trending modus operandi in artistic practices today. This kind of production prompts artists to step outside of normative studio situations to create socially engaged projects connected to audiences typically beyond the microcosm of art.Curator and scholar Salwa Mikdadi points out that these kinds of works are a hallmark of art in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). She writes about their potential: ‘In the case of the Arab world, they undoubtedly serve to bring young people together under the banner of art, in the process giving young artists a renewed sense of purpose.’This article discusses the significance of experimental institutions in the MENA in initiating, producing, espousing, and promoting participatory or collaborative art projects. It highlights three arts centres in the region – Cairo, Sharjah and Amman.