As We Are, Might Have Been, and Could Be is the Arab British Centre’s three-year visual arts and talent development programme running from 2023-2026, curated by Jessica El Mal. It focuses on commissioning artists of Arab descent in the UK, hosting exhibitions and community activities in partnership with a diverse array of institutions, museums and galleries, as well as organising international residencies.
First inspired by our Arab Britain theme exploring the history, achievements and experience of Arabs in the UK, then developed through a year of meeting with and mentoring Arab artists in the UK, As We are, Might Have Been and Could Be aims to open up the possibilities of Arab Britain beyond the factual or historical, with room for play, interpretation and critique. We offer opportunities to make and experience work by and for Arabs in the UK, without being forced into model minority boxes nor reduced to self-orientalist tropes.
Instead, the project first asks artists what they dream of, both in their practice but also in life, and tailors the opportunity to suit their needs. We are interested in artists who are at a pivotal point in their career, for example making the move from emerging to mid-career, wanting to try a new medium, or take a risk that other institutional arts environments may not support. By then working with a range of different venues and partners, we aim to increase awareness of Arab arts around the UK, as well as supporting partners to connect to new audiences. We achieve this through commissions, mentoring, and special projects.
Commissions
Through commissions, As We are, Might Have Been and Could Be offers space for artists to try something new, take a risk or level up in their career. Reflecting the multiplicity of the Arab diasporic experience, the works negotiate time – be that the past, present and or future – and space in unique, not fixed ways. Read more about our commissions here.
Artist Mentoring
Our curator Jessica El Mal is offering free, monthly online mentoring sessions for artists and creative practitioners. To request a session please email jessica@arabbritishcentre.org.uk with any relevant information such as a portfolio, or details on a specific project or topic you would like feedback on.
Special Projects
Our special projects allow the programme to be responsive to current events as well as artist and community needs.
Projects so far include:
Musiqa li Falasteen by Maqam TV at Another Sky Festival, September 2024