Kaat Benahid, Derb Ouali 18, 40000 Marrakech Medina
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Artists In Residence

DAR KAWA ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE

OVERVIEW

Dar Kawa Artists in Residence program provides a single room at our riad for artists wishing to work and do research in Marrakech for up to 10 days. The residency is primarily self-directed, and only one resident is scheduled at a time. Artists can apply year round and selection is based on the strength of portfolio and whether the objectives of the applicant align with what we can offer.

MISSION

Dar Kawa Artists in Residence aims to provide a comfortable, nurturing environment inside a renovated riad for artists to dive into their creative practice while exploring and researching in Marrakech. Applicants should convey a serious interest in Morocco.

BACKGROUND

In the heart of the medina (old city), Dar Kawa is a 17 th century riad (large traditional house with inner courtyard) that throughout the year receives travellers from across the world, giving them an ideal location to experience the authentic Marrakech. A former residence of Sufis, the beautiful riad was restored by creative force Valerie Barkowski, who has kept the historical elements intact while updating it with her distinctive twist of style and elegance. For the last twenty-five years, Valerie has also maintained a local workshop and store in the Medina that continues to employ expert artisans to produce high-quality home linens and lifestyle accessories that have attracted a loyal following. In keeping with her support for creative sustainability, Dar Kawa previously hosted an AIR program from 1997-2004 under the banner of the Sahart Foundation.

After a long hiatus and under a new program name, Dar Kawa Artists in Residence (DK AIR) relaunched in summer of 2023. Having renovated a single room (named FENAAN) at the riad reserved strictly for the AIR program, we are able to receive residents throughout the year, thus occupying the space along with our regular guests and patrons.

WHO SHOULD APPLY

  • All disciplines above and beyond are encouraged to apply, including but not limited to visual artists, writers, designers, architects, musicians, chefs, etc. who are interested in exploring or working on a project specific to Moroccan culture.
  • Students are ineligible.
  • This isn’t a “work” residency, per se, and there isn’t a “mess space” or separate production studio on premise, though there are communal spaces at the riad shared among all guests that you are welcomed to utilize – including the courtyard, office, and rooftop terrace. Applicants should be aware of this and decide if it is worth applying.
  • Ideal candidates are those seeking to delve deep into Moroccan culture while embracing new possibilities for research and developing innovative works. This could mean any number of things, such as: Perhaps you have an exhibition coming up in Marrakech that you need to prep with local artisans; Or you’re writing a book about North African textiles and need to do further investigation; Or you’re an aspiring chef with Maghreban roots and you wish to define what new Moroccan cuisine means; Or you have the brilliant idea that is going to solve the climate crisis, and it involves looking at sunny regions with imminent water issues.
  • This residency is NOT for hobbyists or individuals just seeking an exotic trip. We take creativity very seriously and so should you.
  • Dar Kawa cannot accommodate partners and family or collectives.

WHAT WE PROVIDE

  • 7 to 10 days duration and residency in Marrakech
  • Single room accommodations for the entirety of the residency, including airport pickup and drop off. All other expenses, including airfare, additional travel, visas, etc, will be the responsibility of the participants.
  • Breakfasts will be provided, but all other meals are the responsibility of the participants. Our star chef Saida can assist and provide additional meals (at cost), while residents are also free to utilize the kitchen to prepare and make their own meals. Groceries and markets are easily accessible, as are local restaurants and food stalls. Residents who are culinary enthusiasts might also consider learning and exchanging recipes with Saida.
  • This is a self-directed residency. Our residency manager is not always in Marrakech, but Dar Kawa’s normal staff is available 24/7 should participants need expert local advice and suggestions.
  • As Valerie has a deep history with Marrakech, our connections to makers, artisans. gallerists and other resources will be at your disposal. We are happy to connect you with appropriate people and places to maximize your residency. Just tell us how we might be of service or can help.

DEADLINES AND LOGISTICS

  • There is no deadline and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. We review applications at least twice a year.
  • Selected candidates will be notified via email.
  • In the event of selection for a residency, DK AIR will try our best to accommodate requested dates, but flexibility is essential.
  • No proposals nor applications will be accepted via email.
  • DK AIR is not responsible for any damage or theft of personal objects during residency.
  • Knowledge of Arabic and/or French in Marrakech is useful.
  • Feedback will not be provided in the event that an applicant is not accepted.
  • Applicants who are not accepted may re-apply after 12 months.

GIVING BACK

OPTIONAL: If you were inspired during your residency and moved by what Dar Kawa provided, we would be grateful for any work donations. This might be a letter, a drawing, photograph, etc.

APPLICATION FEES

There is a non-refundable application fee of €15.00 EUROS.

APPLY

For any questions or inquiries, please send an email to: air@darkawa.net