From 6-21 October, 2023, we presented the inaugural edition of MOUSSEM STAGES: a series of performances, talks, gatherings and presentations focused on themes that emerge from the works of artists, as well as Moussem’s distinct organizational context and work methods.
How can artistic autonomy be safeguarded? In what ways do multiple embodied identities impact the recognition and visibility of artists? How do artists navigate the liminal space between disciplines?
Through their presentations, the artists and contributors explored the diverse aspects of artistic labour while capturing its different stages, from invisibility to exposure and from process to representation.
As we look back on a successful first iteration, Moussem wants to thank all of the participating artists and speakers for their energy, trust and generosity.
We would also like to thank our partners a.pass, Decoratelier and MILL/Needcompany for hosting us, as well as the Flemish Government and the Flemish Community Commission for their kind support.
It has been such a thrilling ride to introduce the first edition of MOUSSEM STAGES to the public and to see the Moussem community grow. To us, this feels like the beginning of a new adventure, and we're looking forward to seeing you again soon.
Participating artists: Youness Atbane, Roland Gunst, Sandra Muteteri Heremans, Youness Khoukhou, Dounia Mahammed, Naghmeh Manavi, Angyvir Padilla, Anna Raimondo, Badi Rezzak & guests. Jointly curated by Cees Vossen and Anna Smolak
Images
1) Youness Khoukhou, ‘Naked Journey.’ Photo: Giannina Urmeneta Ottiker
2) Anna Raimondo (with Julie Ruocco), ‘A Love Letter.’ Photo: Serena Vittorini
3) Naghmeh Manavi, ‘(a prelude to…) But, will I remember?’ Photo: Ilse Jooken
4) Youness Atbane, ‘The Post Decolonial Artist Is Waterproofed.’ Photo: Ilse Jooken
5) Sandra Muteteri Heremans, ‘In Search of Gilbert and Idrissa: African Students in the USSR—Performing the Past’. Photo: Ilse Jooken
6) Badi Rezzak, ‘A Stadium by the Dunes.’ Photo: Nisran Azouaghe
7) Roland Gunst, ‘The Lazy Men’s Refuge.’ Photo: Nisran Azouaghe
8) Youness Khoukhou in conversation with Lucia Palladino. Photo: Giannina Urmeneta Ottiker
9) Audience at Sandra Muteteri Heremans’ performance. Photo: Ilse Jooken
10) Audience at 'A Love Letter.' Photo: Serena Vittorini
11) Anna Raimondo, Angyvir Padilla, Anna Smolak and Ekaterina Kaplunova during ‘Bittersweet.’
