The art world has undoubtably taken a big hit during this pandemic. As is the case worldwide, virtually every major event in the region has been cancelled amid the spread of coronavirus—and artists whose livelihood depended on the gig economy have found themselves in an unstable position financially.
Saudi-led foundation, Art Jameel, is stepping up to help. The institution, which has long-supported young artists in the region, is giving $150,000 to Middle Eastern and North African creatives whose incomes have come to a halt due to Covid-19.
They’ve launched a new platform, calling it the Art Jameel Research and Practice Platform and have announced an open call for artists, writers, curators and researchers based in the region to apply. Applications will run across three phases, with the last deadline landing on June 7.
“Over the past few weeks, the Art Jameel team has listened to the arts community and brainstormed ways in which we can repurpose our budget to try to help, working alongside industry and government colleagues,” the foundation’s director Antonia Carver told Arab News.
“We hope that the Research and Practice Platform, alongside Art Jameel’s other programs, will play a role in helping the arts scene survive, and even thrive,” she continued.
The foundation has dedicated a team of independent jurors to judge candidates. In order to apply, all you have to do is fill out an application explaining your practice on their site.
