Published on October 24, 2023

As an artist, you might want to develop your creative talent but are reluctant to jump in. While it’s never easy to step out of your comfort zone, Emergence provides a space for dialogue and open exchanges among artists, with inspiring projects. Those who took part in the first programme tell you what to expect.

What is a residency ?

The artists meet in a dedicated space at Les Kocottes throughout the programme. They explore, exchange ideas, ask questions and carry out research under the watchful eye and expertise of the Director of IMAAYA Gallery, Charlotte dHotman and Moka Smart City’s Art Manager, Mathieu Pigeot. 

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Cendrine Bolaram describes this experience as a unique opportunity : Working in the studio every day for a few months allowed me to become more professional as an artist. It was thought-provoking. She adds that the interaction with other artists opened up new perspectives.

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Meekshuma Nayeck agrees : Exchanging with artists from different disciplines, sometimes even curious passers-by, enriches our approach to our work.  Visits from well-known Mauritian artists, such as Evan Sohun, have also had an impact on the residents. 

In addition to these exchanges and the wealth of creativity, its also time for practical work. The artists deliver presentations and run workshops, reaching out to their audiences. The residency culminates in an exhibition. 

How did they experience the 81406 exhibition ?

Each artist experienced it in a unique way. For Meekshuma, it was an opportunity for an immersion in performance art, a means of artistic expression to which she was briefly introduced during her studies in Marseille. A reflection on movement and space at Emergence led her to revisit this art form. Inspired by the tradition of doing laundry in rivers – a practice, but also a communal gathering, that is being lost , Meekshuma delivered a performance instead of installations during the exhibition.

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Even though I deliberately didnt explain anything or give any context before the exhibition, I was very pleasantly surprised to find that many visitors immediately understood what inspired me,”  she says. 

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For Ashna Crustna, the exhibition gave the public the chance to get to know her. It was a rollercoaster ride: we were in an unusual rush, having to manage our time, stress and emotions, but the end result was gratifying. Im very grateful to Moka Smart City and IMAAYA for this opportunity, ” she says. 

What did they get out of the residency ?

A human experience, new contacts and a new dimension in their creations. This is the common thread as the artists reflect on this experience, which was unexpected for many of them. Meekshuma has found a new lease of life for her artistic careers, while Cendrine Bolaram has created award-winning works – she won the Samudra Art Prize Maurice Giroux. Others like Ashna Crustna are emerging. 

Emergence is an opportunity to delve into the purpose of your art, enrich your creative process and grow as an artist – with some great encounters with other art practitioners along the way. Are you interested ?

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