THE SPACE: THE PLACE FOR NEW PERSPECTIVES
I had a chat with Farah Bushnaq, the Programme Manager of “The Space,” to see what sets this venue apart from other hubs within the city.
Paul D: How did you get involved as programme manager for The Space?
Farah: I was unemployed at the time, and reading at numerous cafes around Abu Dhabi. I heard about The Space one day and became a quick fan. As soon as I heard of a job opening, I leaped at the opportunity and got the job!
Paul D: The Space is a unique concept in this town. Can you explain it for those that may assume it is just a magazine shop and café?
Farah: The Space is a cultural venue that is the first of its kind in the capital. It’s a specialized business and social hub dedicated to building a cultural and entrepreneurial community. The Space encourages and promotes a new perspective on entrepreneurship, one which fuels people with similar and dissimilar interests to find inspiration, a common ground and ultimately get involved with the community through events. It is a place for people to meet, work, relax, take a break, learn, and network. We have a quality book collection, an intimate and well-equipped cinema room, and a contemporary café. The Space is an environment which fosters the intellect and inspires people to explore the arts.
Paul D: It has been a blessing to the artistic community since it opened. I have my Arabic poetry night here and I’ve also hosted a screening of a poetry-related movie called Slam. Thanks for existing!
Farah: We’ve recently had an interesting talk from James Langton of The National newspaper about Abu Dhabi in its pre-oil phase. The talk revealed some never before seen photographs and clips of Abu Dhabi in the early 60s. Many were shocked at how Abu Dhabi was and the extreme transformation that took place in such a short time. Rooftop Rhythms is one of my favourites, an all-Arabic poetry night featuring some instruments and songs. This event brings Arab cultures together and draws in foreign interest too. Part of ISEA 2014 was held at The Space. This was an initiative brought here by Zayed University, and it weaved local UAE tradition and history into the global context of new media science, art and technology.
Paul D: Are you an artist yourself?
Farah: No, but I’m definitely an enthusiast of the arts! Anything that fuels creativity and talent is something I appreciate and love being around. When I travel, these are the kinds of things I like looking for – it’s inspirational and makes me happy. When I found a similar platform in the place I live in and grew up in, I had to be a part of it.
Paul D: What artistic medium do you most enjoy and appreciate?
Farah: As a graduate of film studies, I’d have to say film is my number one. I love the way a film can express a state of mind, culture, humanity, an event. It’s an artistic medium with which I personally have a strong emotional connection.
Paul D: Do you spend time in Dubai? How would you compare the cultural scene of both cities?
Farah: Yes, as a matter of fact my company, Brownbook, has spaces all around Dubai with the same concept: The Archive, The Bookshop, Creekside, and The Magazine Shop, and I’m over there a lot enjoying their events. As I see it, the cultural scene in Dubai is vibrant, international and modern with a focus on exhibitions and displays. Abu Dhabi on the other hand, is holding on to traditional art and welcoming contemporary cultures at the same time. The main difference I see is that Abu Dhabi’s culture scene is more integrated with the people through its initiatives and educational programs – it’s not just about showcasing, but also about teaching and offering cultural discourses. Take The Space for example, instead of being just a cafe or gallery space it invites people to come and get inspired, engage, learn and network with the cultural community.
Paul D: The city is taking many intentional strides to becoming more of a cultural hub. Do you notice any artistic synergy in the city since you’ve been here?
Farah: More than anything I’ve noticed a great support system among emerging and established artists. The community is really working together to build a strong and diverse cultural hub in all areas whether its film, fashion, music, visual art, architecture, design, innovation and technology. This type of synergy is being recognized by organizations and institutions internationally and it exists because of the multicultural society within Abu Dhabi.
Paul D: What are your favourite programmes that you have held at The Space?
Farah: There are two art exhibitions that I helped plan at The Space: “The Incessant Ramblings of a Yellow Kind” and “I’m Feeling 22”. These were first time exhibitions for these artists and were special to me because of the recognition they received. The Space made a difference in their artistic journey, and this gave meaning to what I do.
Paul D: What would be a dream event that you would love to plan one day?
Farah: There are so many things I’d like to plan! I would love to host a week of Arab culture, celebrating Arab arts and culture in its many forms: cinema, art, architecture, music, and literature. Bringing cultural experts, film directors, musicians, and authors in to discuss the traditional and modern Arab culture would be fascinating to put together. I think the Arab world has a lot to offer and this would inspire and enlighten more of the community to preserve and enhance our culture. I’ve also been playing around with an idea for a while, where The Space would dedicate a period of time where people can just come in and create something. There would be various stations around The Space and all supplies included. We would let creative minds roam free with no pressure, limits or guidelines.
Paul D: I’m so glad that you are all about taking pressure away and allowing for freedom. Now, I feel no anxiety asking you to take care of the bill.
