Atelier for exiles

Just a few streets from the Louvre in central Paris, the Atelier des Artistes en Exil (the Agency of Artists in Exile) is a large studio space and cultural centre which has become a thriving hub for 400+ refugee professional artists. We join them for an “open doors” evening where visual artists, photographers, musicians and dancers are sharing their work with the public. Graffiti artist and sculptor Ahlam Jarban is our guide. Originally from Yemen, Ahlam now lives in France and has been a member of the Atelier since 2018. She shares a vibrant studio space with four other artists who have all fled their country - including Richie, a painter from Myanmar who arrived in June. Since coming to Paris, Richie’s art has become much more political. We also hear from Iranian artist Maral Balouri, Kurdish artist Bager Kaya, Afghan photographers Fatima Hossaini and Roya Heydari, and atelier director Judith Depaule The Atelier provides practical support to refugee artists applying for asylum in France, in addition to professional development and project support. But bringing together exiled artists from 45 different countries has also created a strong sense of community and sharing of artistic ideas. It’s a place for preserving traditional culture but also developing new collaborations. The night ends with a joyful live concert outside in the courtyard. Presenter: Ahlam Jarban (Photo: Daouda Nganga. Credit: Fadi Idrees)