On 7th of July, the "Library for Architecture" was full of architects, researchers, cultural practitioners, and ordinary people who were curious to come and listen to the experts from Georgia and get acquainted with their professional activities. The topic of the event was the experience of women in urbanism and architecture in Georgia.
The speakers of the event covered a wide range of urgent and interesting topics. Elena Darjania, an urban planner, researcher, and education expert, discussed strategies for enhancing infrastructures in various cities across Georgia. She also emphasized the importance of community involvement in finding solutions to environmental challenges. Architect Lia Bokuchava shared her extensive expertise in protecting and conserving historical, cultural, and architectural heritage. Researcher Tata Gachechiladze provided insights into the present condition of industrial buildings remaining from the Soviet era.
During the panel discussion, Sona Nersesyan, the moderator, inquired about the unique and complex aspects of being a woman engaged in the field of architecture and urban planning. The participants mentioned that being a female architect, researcher, and/or urban planner in the region has both positive and negative aspects.
The meeting attendees showed particular interest in projects that focused on the conservation of cultural and industrial heritage within post-Soviet urban environments, as well as the engagement of governmental institutions in such initiatives. There were several questions regarding strategies to enhance the participation of local communities in efforts to address climate change.
Representatives of the “New Democracy Fund” (NDF) Yulia Zakolyabina and Rasmus Romulus Palluda were personally present at the event. In her speech, Yulia Zakolyabina emphasized the commitment of the "New Democracy Fund" to foster collaboration with Eastern Partnership Countries and implement initiatives aimed at gender equality.
At the end of the event, the attendees as well as Georgian speakers noted that Re-Lentus can be the basis of further Armenian-Georgian cooperation and joint projects.
Re-Lentus is an annual cultural and interdisciplinary project created through the collaboration of CSN Lab in Armenia and CuMa Lab in Georgia. In both countries, the project features a range of events and discussions where Armenian and Georgian female artists, cultural practitioners, representatives of civil society and media, as well as researchers, come together. These women introduce the public to their diverse activities and delve into key themes, issues, and obstacles they encounter.
The primary objective of this initiative is to raise awareness and recognition for female artists, cultural practitioners, and researchers. Additionally, the project strives to foster and strengthen the dialogue between Armenia and Georgia. Through this initiative, the societies of both countries have a unique chance to discover female artists from the neighboring country and gain insights into their activities, concerns, and obstacles they face.
Re-Lentus is supported by the Danish Cultural Institute through the New Democracy Fund (NDF) program.
Photographer: Narek Dalakyan