Often, smell can feel like the last sensory frontier. Still a little visceral, still less explored—and exploited—than its other, far more interfaced and corporatised counterparts. When we talk about scent, too, we tend to turn to the natural as a means to efface the natural—sea breezes and floral bouquets to mask perspiration and cooking smells. But then there’s indolic smells, or those fetid-sweet, narcotic compounds found mostly in white flowers like jasmine, nargis, tuberose and honeysuckle. Seductive as they might be, there’s something in them that’s a little bit putrescine, cadaverine. The smell of something rotten in the social factory.
And then there’s Proust. To paraphrase contributor Francisco Salas Pérez, we’re tired of madeleines, and of Western civilisation’s reductive straightjacket of smell and memory. What else can smell do? How do we hack into audiovisual hegemony? What other new olfactory disciplines might emerge?
FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE: Khairani Barokka, Ali Boggs, Suzanne Fischer, Adam Flynn, Mary-Jo Gilligan, Pavel Godfrey, Barbara Herman, Anne Elizabeth Moore, Kristine Ong Muslim, Charles Reid, Erika Renedo Illarregi, Adam Rothstein, Francisco Salas Pérez, Manuel Schwab, Mark West.
THIS ISSUE WILL BE AVAILABLE in stores in Chicago, Doha, Dubai, Lisbon, London, Madrid, New York, Paris, and Singapore, and at our online shop. A $5 PDF version will also be available.
For more information click here.
Fort Kochi, India
Coinciding with the Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2012, India's first Biennale, Traffic have set up a guesthouse in Fort Kochi, Kerala, for a period of 5 months, Nov 2012-March 2013, exploring the guest/host relationship. 'Villa Mendez' is a traditional Kerala heritage house that will welcome individuals from around the world and host them anywhere between 1-2 weeks, free of charge. The only request is that guests leave something behind and take something back, preferably knowledge that can be passed on. In general, it's focus is on socialization and cultural exchange. The guesthouse will also offer a public program consisting of workshops, film screenings, sporting activities, a library, gallery and media room.kochimuzirisbiennale.org >here.
Satellite, Al Serkal
Every three months, Future Shorts HQ in London puts together a feature-length programme of some of the best classic, cult and award-winning short films from around the world. From 1 October to 31 December 2012, the Autumn Programme will feature 5 short films and explore hope and despair in human life in the metropolis. Selected short programming includes: “A Brief History of John Baldessari”, from the directors of CATFISH and narrated by Tom Waits; “Rite” nominated for BAFTA Best Short Film and Winner of Sundance’s Short Filmaking Award; “The Black Balloon”, Winner of Special Jury Mention at Tribeca Film Festival; “Café Regular” and “Auf Der Strecke” winner of over 50 international awards. The full Autumn Season screening program can be viewed here.
Satellite, Al Serkal
Originating in Japan, Pecha Kucha (pronounced peh-chak-cha) is Japanese for “chit chat”. It is an international network of events spread over 537 cities across the world, from Amsterdam to Atlanta and San Francisco to Shanghai. In Dubai it takes place three to four times a year, providing the freedom to network and exchange ideas on any creative subject in an informal and open minded space. The presentations follow a 20x20 format, which allows each of the evening’s presenters to showcase 20 slides – each shown for exactly 20 seconds, totaling exactly 6 minutes and 40 seconds.For more information about Pecha Kucha go to: www.pecha-kucha.org/night/dubai or visit the Facebook Event Page
Traffic, Studio
Dubai-based Comedy & Urban Arts School, Dubomedy, presents their end of term student graduation show. MIX TAPE will include original stand up comedy, improv games, tap dance, Irish dance & body percussion. Admission is free, but try to arrive early as seats fill up fast. The evening is organised by Dubomedy whose mission has been to use comedy as a tool to bring people of different cultures, races, religions and finances together, in a supportive and nurturing environment, while offering them a platform to perform, forge new friendships and become part of a sustainable community.
Traffic
Premiered at the New York Film Festival this year, and screened at 60 festivals since, Andrew Bird: FEVER YEAR has been described by The Film Society of Lincoln Center in New York as "a cunning hybrid of documentary and concert film." Filmed during culminating months of the acclaimed singer-songwriter’s most rigorous year of touring, Andrew Bird crosses the December finish line in his hometown of Chicago – feverish and on crutches from an onstage injury. Is he suffering hazards from chasing the ghost of inspiration? Or merely transforming into a different kind of animal “perfectly adapted to the music hall?” FEVER YEAR is the first to capture Bird’s precarious multi-instrumental looping technique and features live performances at Milwaukee’s Pabst Theater with collaborators Martin Dosh, Jeremy Ylvisaker, Michael Lewis and Annie Clark of St. Vincent.
Traffic, Studio
Bringing together young bands from different communities, 'Mental Issues' will include the following acts: Soulful, Benevolent, Apeira, Fighting Superheroes, Point of View, Rambo Childhood, Pullbox, Story of Grace and AKB. A special acoustic set will be performed by Ishan Sen Sharma. For more information, please contact: rocknationuae@yahoo.com / +971 50 1139873
Traffic
Last weekend Traffic hosted Oedipuss Films for their 48-hour film project, a global competition where filmmakers come together over one sleepless weekend, taking a predefined genre and script, shooting and editing a film within 48 hours. This year, over 50,000 filmmakers signed up to make up to 4,000 films in 120 cities on 6 continents around the world. Competition results will be announced soon. For more information, please visit
Traffic, Studio
We are currently holding “The Future of Small Business” exhibition in Traffic Gallery in Dubai. This exhibition is organized by Dr. Chuloh Jung, Architect and Associate Professor of Architecture at the School of Architecture, Art and Design in the American University in Dubai, and it is composed of 30 design projects from his design studios.
In the wake of an unprecedented recession, a budding urban context, and multifaceted social intricacies how can architecture help stabilize and improve the fabric of communities? Set in the heart of Jumeirah, As a young Architects, students provides design alternatives for Jumeirah commercialization as it faces issues such as achieving sustainability in the desert, embracing urban and traditional contexts, resolving social intricacies, and adapting cutting-edge technologies. This project proposes exploring ways to break traditional development as a means to design an alternative future development model for 2032.
They explored various design aspects to achieve successful design solutions which demonstrate an understanding of the multiple contexts in which a modern firm operates; an understanding of the multiple systems (such as cultural, economic, and social) in which this site resides; an awareness of cost-efficient and low-budget solutions; a consideration of how people might approach, view, and use this site; an understanding of relationships between form, site, material, and function; and a consideration of the potential to inform, inspire, and engage the public.
Traffic, Random
We are pleased to announce that Dubomedy Arts School will be holding their Fall 2012 term classes at Traffic, starting September 29th and culminating in a final show on November 17th, 2012. The School offers on-going training in stand up comedy, improv, NYC tap dance and body percussion, Learn to Speak Emirati and more. The classes are taught by industry professionals, were rated “Best classes to take in Dubai” by Timeout Dubai and received an award from DIDF for contributions to the local arts community. For more information please call +971 50 440 0994, send an email to LOL@vivadubai.com or visit www.dubomedy.com
Traffic, Triangle
Triangle, Traffic's film and video viewing space, will show a varied collection of feature length films, documentaries, and video material from Traffic's library and beyond. To attend please RSVP on info@viatraffic.org. The space may also be booked for private screenings through info@viatraffic.org or +971 4 347-0209.
In conjunction with the Traffic [Studio] Fashion Weekend (Sept 13-15, 2012)
Bill Cunningham New York (directed by Richard Press)
Sept 14, 2012 | 7pm (Run time: 84mins)
A cinematic profile of the noted veteran New York City fashion photographer.
Coco Avant Chanel (directed by Anne Fontaine)
Sept 15, 2012 | 5pm (Run time: 105mins)
The story of Coco Chanel's rise from obscure beginnings to the heights of the fashion world.
The September Issue (directed by R.J. Cutler)
Sept 15, 2012 | 7pm (Run time: 90mins)
A documentary chronicling Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour's preparations for the 2007 fall-fashion issue.
Ongoing Program
Nam June Paik | Lessons From the Video Master
(by Skip Blumberg and 63 collaborators)
Sept 11, 2012 | 7pm (Run time: 93mins)
Taking a closer look at Korean American media artist Nam Jun Paik (July 20, 1932 – January 29, 2006) considered to be the first video artist. He broke the rules of both art and television by bridging the gap between the two.
HOT SPOTS: Martin Parr in the American South (directed by Neal Broffman)
Sept 17, 2012 | 7pm (Run time: 60mins)
Acclaimed Magnum photographer Martin Parr focuses on Atlanta while documentary filmmaker Neal Broffman turns his lens on Parr.
Experimental Cinema 1922-1954
From the collection of the George Eastman House and from the Raymond Rohauer Collection
DISC ONE (9 films): Sept 22, 2012 | 6pm (Run time: 154mins)
DISC TWO (6 films): Sept 23, 2012 | 6pm (Run time: 135mins)
From the little theaters of the 1920s to the ad hoc film societies of the 50s, avant-garde cinema knew no established form and held no predictable position.
Traffic, Studio
ATraffic’s open concept Studio provides tools, training and space for members of the community to work on their individual projects, or to collaborate on group projects. It invites all makers, artists and craftsmen to join the collective, share resources and knowledge to make things, as well as take part in introductory workshops. Machines that are currently available for use include a laser cutter, a CNC router, and three different types of sewing machines. Usage of the Studio is on a pay as you wish donation basis, and is open to all between Sat-Thurs, 10am-6pm. For upcoming instructor-led workshops, please refer to the Traffic [Studio] Facebook page.
Buy/Sell/Trade/Rent/Lend/Donate
Traffic
The third installment of THE MARKET OF EVERYTHING will be held in Traffic between the 20-29th of September, 2012. Over 10 days Traffic will be bringing together members of the community looking to buy, sell, trade, rent, lend or donate anything from furniture, books, music, art, food, clothes, toys, cars, pets, instruments and more. The Market of Everything aims to promote community involvement and support social sustainability through the exchange and recycling of our belongings. It also embraces DIY projects.
The program of activities throughout the week is varied and will include a listening party, a film premiere, an open mic night, a charity event, contemporary dance, workshops for both adults and children, food stations, and a ping-pong tournament. The full program will be available on www.viatraffic.org soon.
If you are in interested in participating as a vendor, or would like to be involved in any other way (performing, baking, holding a workshop, etc.) please get in touch with us through info@viatraffic.org or +971 4 347-0209 for guidelines. If you plan on making items to sell at The Market of Everything, you are welcome to do so at the Traffic [Studio]. Let us know what you’re interested in making and we will do our best to assist you with the facilities, tools, and expertise.
Sharjah Art Foundation presents Pilot Micro Multiplex│Mall
Traffic, Front
Jun Yang's practice ranges from film making to initiating a restaurant (ra'mien) in Vienna and creating a hotel room for the GfZK (Museum of Contemporary Art in Leipzig). Considering his participation in the Pilot Micro Multiplex Mall exhibition, the artist will discuss the conditions specific to working as an artist in the 'protected' contexts offered by art institutions and in 'real' circumstances present within the public realm. What are the different challenges and advantages of working with the parameters that determine specific environments and what can be proposed within these frameworks?
Jun Yang (b. 1975, China) completed his studies at the Akademie der Bildenden Künste in Vienna after having studied in Amsterdam at the Gerrit Rietveld Akademie’s free media department. He currently lives and works in Vienna, Tokyo and Taipei.
http://www.sharjahart.org/exhibitions-events/current-upcoming-events/pilot-micro-multiplex-mall
Traffic
ATodd Selby is a portrait, interiors, and fashion photographer and illustrator. His project The Selby offers an insider’s view of creative individuals in their personal spaces with an artist’s eye for detail. This month, Selby will be photographing Traffic.
Traffic, Studio
Thursday, Sept 13 | 10am-10pm (Preview: 10am-7pm, Opening: 7pm-10pm)
Friday, Sept 14 | 12pm-9pm
Saturday, Sept 15 | 12pm-9pm
upporting young and independent fashion designers, both home-grown and international, Traffic [Studio] is hosting a Fashion Weekend where designers are given the space to exhibit and sell their garments. They will also be able to provide insight into their creative process by producing or customizing directly on site, hold or participate in workshops, discuss, collaborate, experiment and be inspired by other fellow designers.
Both menswear and womenswear designers are welcome to apply. Designer participation is not charged, but on a suggested contribution basis. Application deadline closes on Sept 6, 2012. Please contact Nina Trojanovic / Angelle Siyang Le on info@viatraffic.org or +971 4 347-0209 for application guidelines.
Rami Farook
Satellite, Al Serkal
Somewhere between reality TV, public service announcements and social surveillance, this broadcasted journal shares selected observations and experiences from July & August 2012 via 40+ videos and a publication.
Traffic, Studio
AA CNC router is a computer controlled machine for cutting various hard materials, such as wood, composites, aluminum, steel, plastics, and foams. For this workshop, the CNC router will be used to cut and shape all the parts used in assembling a wooden gear clock, based on clockwork principles that have endured for hundreds of years. Through this workshop, you will gain an understanding of how a CNC router works, preparing you for your own DIY projects using the machine. The workshop will be led by Ismael Touq, who can be contacted on 055 923-7389.
Directed by Iara Lee (Run time: 52mins)
Satellite, Al Serkal
Over a year later, with thousands dead and counting, the ongoing conflict in Syria has become a microcosm for the complicated politics of the region, and an unsavory reflection of the world at large. Against the backdrop of the Arab Spring and the complicated politics of the region, this film seeks to explore the Syrian conflict through the humanity of the civilians who have been killed, abused, and displaced to the squalor of refugee camps. In all such conflicts, large and small, it is civilians—women and children, families and whole communities—who suffer at the leisure of those in power. When elephants go to war, it is the grass that suffers.
The Scents of Marie-Claire: A Modern Arabic Novel by Habib Selmi
Traffic, Front
Kutub Bilarabi literary circle resumes at Traffic this season. Held every first Monday of the month and open to the community, the group discusses Arabic titles translated into English. This week, the group will be discussing 'The Scents of Marie-Claire: A Modern Arabic Novel,' by one of Tunisia's leading writers, Habib Selm. For more information, please contact Kutub Bilarabi on Kutubbilarabi@gmail.com or +971 50 327 2748.
Traffic, Studio
A few of us will be getting together to make kaftans, and we invite you to join in. The simple A-line shape kaftan lends itself well to those learning how to sew. Essentially, two same size pieces are cut out, and two seams on each side join the kaftan. The more elaborate kaftan, adding slits, buttons, embroidery or more than one fabric, may require more experience. Bring your own material or choose from a selection of Japanese cotton and silk-cotton crepe fabrics available for purchase at the Traffic [Studio].
Traffic, Studio
Traffic’s open concept Studio provides tools, training and space for members of the community to work on their individual projects, or to collaborate on group projects. It invites all makers, artists and craftsmen to join the collective, share resources and knowledge to make things, as well as take part in introductory workshops. Machines that are currently available for your use include a laser cutter, a CNC router, and three different types of sewing machines. Usage of the Studio is on a pay as you wish donation basis, and is open to all between Sat-Thurs, 10am-4pm during Ramadan. To sign up for a workshop, email us on info@viatraffic.org. For upcoming activities, please refer to www.viatraffic.org and join the Traffic [Studio] Facebook page.
Applications now open for September 2012
Traffic, Studio
Supporting young and independent fashion designers, both home-grown and international, Traffic [Studio] is hosting it’s first fashion weekend where designers are given the space to exhibit and sell their garments, provide insight into their creative process by producing or customizing directly on site, give or participate in workshops, discuss, collaborate, experiment and be inspired by other fellow designers.
Both menswear and womenswear designers are welcome to apply. Designer participation is not charged, but is on a suggested donation basis. If interested, please email Nina Trojanovic / Angelle Siyang Le on info@viatraffic.org or call 04 347-0209 for application guidelines.
The 1st part of Bunty’s 7 part multimedia album is out now
Mos 1 is the first installment of Bunty's new album Multimos. Bunty is releasing 7 individual multimedia packages for download, stemming from a strange make-believe world starring King Zacky and the Third Party Force, which audiences can engage with on the Multimos website. The first release features 3 songs and a short film. To view click here, To download click here
Every 8 weeks Bunty will release the next 'Mos' package for download. Multimos will culminate in the release of a full physical album, DVD and multimedia live show in 2013. You may remember Bunty’s performance at Traffic last September 2011. Here’s a soundbite.
Traffic, Triangle
In modern dance since the 1970s, few choreographers have had more influence in the medium than the late Pina Bausch. This film explores the life and work of this artist of movement while we see her company perform her most notable creations where basic things like water, dirt and even gravity take on otherworldly qualities in their dancing. During the preparation of the documentary, Pina Bausch died unexpectedly. Wenders cancelled the film production, but the other dancers of Tanztheater Wuppertal convinced him to make the film anyway. View the trailer here.
The film and video section of Traffic’s circulating library includes a widely varied collection of feature length films, documentaries, and animations. These are available for short term loan or may be viewed in the Triangle, Traffic’s viewing room equipped with surround sound & a digital projector.
For more information on publications, loan enquiries or donations, please contact Traffic on +971 4 347-0209.
Applications now open for September 2012
The third installment of THE MARKET OF EVERYTHING will be held in Traffic between the 20-29th of September, 2012. Over 10 days Traffic will be bringing together members of the community looking to buy, sell, trade or donate anything from furniture, books, music, art, food, clothes, toys, cars, pets, instruments and more. The Market of Everything aims to promote community involvement and support social sustainability through the exchange and recycling of our belongings. It also embraces DIY projects.
Activities held during the Market range from film screenings, open mic nights, dance performances, and gaming tournaments, to adult and children’s workshops. If you are in interested in participating as a vendor, or would like to be involved in any other way (performing, baking, holding a workshop, etc.) please let us know on info@viatraffic.org and we will send you the guidelines.
If you plan on making items to sell at The Market of Everything, you are welcome to do so at the Traffic [Studio]. Let us know what you’re interested in making and we will do our best to assist you with the facilities, tools, and expertise.
THE STATE VOL 2: SPECULATIVE GEOGRAPHIES will be available at PRINT, Traffic from Thursday, August 9th, 2012. In the first issue we asked how do you speak a place, how do you speak from a place or non-place? For the second issue we invited works that wondered about places themselves—those that could have been or those that will be. Fifteen pieces have been selected for this issue, and together they present a multidisciplinary approach to the interpretation of speculation. Kathmandu, Brasilia and colonial Egypt are studied through the lens of place and speculation. Others write manifestos and papers calling for future action. And some write a speculative fictional future that looks like a very realistic present.
THE STATE can be found at the PRINT bookstore (Traffic), Dubai, Section 7 Books (Castillo/Corrales) in Paris; Quimby's Bookstore in Chicago, Centro de Arte Dos de Mayo, CA2M Library in Madrid, Printed Matter, Inc. in New York, and more recently Ler Devagar in Lisbon. THE STATE is also available for purchase online on the website (both in print and online versions).
Visit THE STATE online for essays, articles, web-installations and the daily blog. http://www.thestate.ae @thestate_
Call for Donations
The library consists of a growing collection of books, exhibition catalogues and magazines, from established publishers to smaller independent presses, in the areas of Anthropology, Architecture/Urban Studies, the Arts, Biographies, Business, Design, Film, Graphic Novels, History, Literature, Media & Technology, Philosophy/Critical Theory, Politics, Psychology, Religion, Self-Help, and Travel. Books are available for short-term loan, or may be browsed through on location. The library is accepting book donations, preferably in the above subject areas. Donated titles should be in good condition and may be dropped off at Traffic between Sat-Thurs, 10am-7pm.
For more information on publications, loan enquiries or donations, please contact Traffic on +971 4 347-0209.
Christian Jankowski’s film ‘The Eye of Dubai’ and BBC World News series ‘Collaboration Culture’
Satellite will be screening 'The Eye of Dubai' (47min20sec) – the recently completed black and white & part colour film that recalls Jankowski’s first trip to Dubai. It is accompanied by a television documentary, from the BBC World News series Collaboration Culture, which follows the process of the making of Jankowski’s film. The artist and his film crew remained blindfolded until the moment of the first glimpse of their film on the last night of their trip. The crew was led by their local guide, Rami Farook, who took them to undisclosed locations he personally selected. The work, 'The Eye of Dubai', is currently showing at Friedrich Petzel Gallery in NYC, as part of Jankowski’s solo exhibition DISCOURSE NEWS. The episode of Collaboration Culture documenting Jankowski’s blind film production will be transmitted by BBC World News on July 21st (GMT 00.30, 07.30) and 22nd (GMT 12.30 and 18.30). It will be streaming live at Satellite on Sunday, July 22nd at 9:30pm.
Emirati/German Suhoor snacks will be served.
Fashion Atelier and Laser Cutting
Traffic’s open concept Studio provides tools, training and space for members of the community to work on their individual projects, or to collaborate on group projects. It invites all makers, artists and craftsmen to join the collective, share resources and knowledge to build and make things, as well as take part in introductory workshops. Usage of the Studio is on a pay as you wish donation basis, and is open to all between Sat-Thurs, 10am-7pm.
Fashion Atelier Training
Throughout July 2012
Walk-in | Sun-Thurs, 10am-7pm
Serving young designers (and newcomers alike) by offering them resources to train and create their own brands. Participants will have the opportunity to gain hands-on practical experience and ask questions relating to sketching croquis, the basic fundamentals for fashion design, how to use a sewing machine, draping and creating muslins, techniques for fabric manipulation, using and installing zippers and buttonholes, and more.
The atelier is run by Lejla Redja, whose expertise lies in fashion design.
Laser Cutting Workshop
Walk-in | Sat, July 7, 2012
Laser cutting works by directing the output of a high-power laser, by computer, at the material to be cut. The material then either melts, burns, vaporizes away, or is blown away by a jet of gas, leaving an edge with a high-quality surface finish.
The laser cutter available at Traffic [Studio] has a working area of 90x140cm with 130watt laser tube, capable of cutting materials up to 20mm thick. It works on wood, acrylic, plastic, fabric, leather and paper.
The workshop will teach participants to operate a laser cutter, use the software, set up the parameters, and finally, work on interesting projects. Participants should bring their material of choice (which can also be supplied upon request), and if possible, their laptop (Windows OS is preferred for certain software, but Mac can also be used for producing designs.)
For upcoming projects and workshops, please refer to www.viatraffic.org and join the Traffic [Studio] Facebook page
Derek Ogbourne presents a talk about the genesis and development of his installation, the Museum of Optography. The artist will discuss the large body of work that has led him to the Museum's inception, from his early large organic paintings to his interactive sculptures, body worn camera performances and his intensely physical works of video art and film. He will lead us from his days at the Slade School of Fine Art in the 1980s to the point when his obsession with the ‘last moment’ developed into the current instalment of the Museum of Optography, The Purple Chamber presented at the Sharjah Art Foundation, Collections Building, Arts Area, Heart of Sharjah.
The Global Pop-Up Short Film Festival
Every three months, Future Shorts HQ in London puts together a feature-length programme of some of the best classic, cult and award-winning short films from around the world. From the creators of the acclaimed Secret Cinema, Future Shorts continues to be a true celebration of cinema, connecting global stories with global audiences. This summer, the worldwide program (screening from June 1st 2012 to August 31st 2012) includes BAFTA winner and Oscar nominee “A Morning Stroll,” Clermont-Ferrand winner “The Guest,” SXSW winner “Notes on Biology,” and the Brazilian short film “Street Vendor Cinema”.
Christian Jankowski
Film Screening and Discussion
This 30-minute documentary opens a window to the imagination of six artists selected to participate in the Artist in Residency (AiR) Dubai 2012 program. Over a period of three months, three emerging UAE artists and their international counterparts created personal works in the lead up to Art Dubai and Sikka Art Fair while based in Dubai's old quarter, Al Bastakiya.
Award-winning filmmaker Mahmoud Kaabour followed Deniz Üster, Fayçal Baghriche, Magdi Mostafa, Hadeyeh Badri, Nasir Nasrallah and Zeinab Alhashemi, together with resident curator, Alexandra MacGilp, through the last weeks of the residency as they reflected on their inspirations, impressions of Dubai, and their personal processes of creating art.
This annual residency is the result of a close collaboration between Art Dubai, Delfina Foundation (London), Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and Tashkeel. AiR Dubai 2012, the documentary, was commissioned by Tashkeel, directed by Mahmoud Kaabour and produced by Veritas Films, 2012.
Mon, June 18, 2-5pm: Studio Workshop: Make a T-Shirt
Sat, June 23, 2-5pm: Studio Workshop: Make a T-Shirt
Mon, June 25, 2-5pm: Studio Workshop: Make a Tote Bag
Sat, June 30, 2-5pm: Studio Workshop: Make a Tote Bag
Ongoing, Sat-Thurs 10am-6pm: Studio Workshop: Make a Felt Object
* Participants are welcome to bring their own material, or join the material sourcing trip, leaving from Traffic at 11am on the day of the workshop.
Traffic’s open concept Studio provides tools, training and space for members of the community to work on their individual projects, or to collaborate on group projects. It invites all makers, artists and craftsmen to join the collective, share resources and knowledge to build and make things, as well as take part in introductory workshops. Coming up this month are three studio workshops in fashion and craftwork, where participants will learn and apply basic techniques to make a t-shirt, tote bag, and various felt objects. Workshops of up to 7 people are on a first come first serve basis, and are run by Lejla Redja, whose expertise lies in fashion design. Usage of the Studio is on a pay as you wish donation basis, and is open to all between Sat-Thurs 10am-7pm. For more information, please contact info@viatraffic.org
Dubomedy Arts School Graduation Show
Dubai-based Comedy & Urban Arts School, Dubomedy, presents their end of term student graduation show. MIX TAPE will include original stand up comedy, improv games, tap dance, Irish dance & body percussion. Admission is free, but try to arrive early as seats fill up fast. The evening is organised by Dubomedy whose mission has been to use comedy as a tool to bring people of different cultures, races, religions and finances together, in a supportive and nurturing environment, while offering them a platform to perform, forge new friendships and become part of a sustainable community.
June 7, 4-6pm: Bloggers preview
June 7, 7-9pm: Opening reception
June 8, 10:30am-10pm: Open to the public
Over two days, the PreRamadan Pop-up Shop will feature nine designers exhibiting for the first time, with a prêt-à-porter collection of jalabiyas (kaftans) made on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. Designers include Attah, FBubble, Keswah, Kwashi, Maisoon Fashion House, Maryam Omaira, Sary Boutique, and YOU. This event is organized by Hessa&PR and Favours Events.
In cooperation with the Chilean Embassy in Abu Dhabi, BOLDtalks and Traffic are pleased to present a talk on the topic of European encounter with the Indigenous people of the America, by renowned Anthropologist Dr. Luis Eduardo Luna.
Christian, who has never been to Dubai, decided to experience the culture of the city through all his senses except sight. Right after getting off the plane, he wore a black-out eye mask and relied on Rami as his local guide. From Friday 25 May, and over 5 days, Christian made a short film documenting this experience. The film’s cameraman and soundman also had their eyes covered, and BBC World News was around to witness the trip.
Panel discussion
Panelists will consider the representation of Arab women in contemporary art practices within local, regional and diaspora contexts. The representation of women in Arab contemporary art, the accomplishments by Arab women artists who make art reflecting women's experiences, and improving the status of women will also be highlighted. Artists Sama Alshaibi and Maisoon Al Saleh will bring their first-hand experiences and reflections on their own respective art practices, while Arab art historian and curator Dr. Salwa Mikdadi offers a broad perspective on Arab women artists and the representation of women in contemporary Arab art. This panel is supported by the U.S. Embassy to the UAE as part of its cultural diplomacy initiatives, which include Sama Alshaibi's current public speaking tour of the UAE, and is moderated by Isabella Ellaheh Hughes—an independent curator and Dubai Editor of ArtAsiaPacific.
THE STATE VOL 2: SPECULATIVE GEOGRAPHIES
Vol 2 of THE STATE is premised on cultural imagination and futures of place. We invite you to speculate and translate the future’s visualisations of form and format. By using situational spectation, tactile sensations, personal anticipation and architectural justifications, we seek a contextual understanding of today’s socialscape as a means to inform the landscapes of tomorrow.Deadline: April 30, 2012
The Market of Everything is back and sending out an open call for vendors and participants. Over 10 days, between April 12 - 21, 2012 Traffic will be bringing together members of the community looking to buy, sell, trade or donate anything from furniture, books, music, art, food, clothes, toys, cars, pets, instruments and more.
Not Your Average Peeping Tom: Cultural Voyeurism and Moving Beyond Racial Prejudice to Form a More Perfect Union
Traffic is pleased to present a talk and discussion on cultural voyeurism led by Dr. Osei Appiah, Associate Professor in the School of Communication at The Ohio State University. Cultural voyeurism is conceptualized as the process by which a person seeks knowledge about and gratification from a different cultural group or phenomenon.
Featured publishers include Alfred A. Knopf, Bergen Kunsthall, Brusselssprout, Canongate Books, Chris Boot, Gagosian Gallery, Green Art Gallery, HarperCollins Publishers, Hatje Cantz, JRP Ringier, Metropolitan Books, MIT Press, Phaidon, Prestel, Routeledge, Saatchi Gallery, Semiotexte, Skira, Steidl, St