Re-Lentus is an annual cultural and interdisciplinary project which we implement through the collaboration with Georgian partners. The project is aimed at increasing the visibility of women artists, cultural practitioners, and researchers while also fostering and strengthening Armenian-Georgian cultural dialogue.
In recent years, global and regional events, wars, military conflicts, political crises, and the pandemic have deeply affected the cultural landscapes of Armenia and Georgia. Despite these challenges, artists, cultural professionals, and activists continue to critically engage with contemporary issues, seeking and proposing solutions. From the perspective of cultural rights and, in particular, gender equality, this period has been especially difficult for women. Taking this into account, CSN Lab, in collaboration with a Georgian partners organization initiated and annually organizes the “Re-Lentus” cultural dialogue program, which provides women artists, researchers, and cultural professionals with a platform to share their experiences, strengthen connections in their fields and beyond, and create new opportunities for regional cooperation.
This project emerged years ago as a platform aimed at fostering diverse collaborations and dialogue, where participants would exchange their experiences on how they continue to remain resilient in the challenging conditions in the fight for democracy, within the absence of peace, and how through inner strength, solidarity, and creativity, they strive to make culture more democratic, sustainable, and equitable.
The Re-Lentus program encompasses multiple components and cultural formats. Each year, a variety of events take place in Georgia and Armenia, including discussions, meetings, art residencies, and mobility programs. These initiatives allow Armenian and Georgian women experts to introduce their work to wider audiences in both countries and to present the key themes and issues that they are faced with within their creative and research practices.
The thematic focus of the program changes annually, responding to global and regional developments and challenges. In its commitment to addressing current issues, Re-Lentus has previously explored topics such as art and advocacy, urbanism, architecture, and literature, among others.
The Danish Cultural Institute had its contribution in the creation of the project, which has an undeniable importance in supporting the continuous development of the program.
By promoting regional cultural dialogue, advocating for cultural rights, and defending freedom of expression, Re-Lentus contributes to the creation of a more open and equitable society. With a strong emphasis on the active participation of women in the cultural sphere and the public recognition of their work, the program provides a safe and supportive platform where women can share their knowledge, to publicise the challenges they meet, and exchange experiences in overcoming these obstacles.
For years now, the Re-Lentus project has consistently brought together dozens of experts and artists, providing the public with the opportunity to engage with cultural life beyond borders and to understand the challenges faced by cultural practitioners.
To learn more about the project, you can read the articles covering the annual Re-Lentus program.
