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Mourad Montazemi presents modern Arab art in the most important museums in Paris

Duration: 0:13:27.978666

In today's cultural segment, we will learn about the first exhibition of its kind hosted by the Museum of Modern Art in Paris. The exhibition sheds light on the relationship of Arab artists with the city in the twentieth century. Arab Revelations is an exploration of the transformations in modern Arab art, from historical narratives to artistic expressions that are largely unknown in Europe. The selected works come from local collections such as the Barjeel Art Foundation in Sharjah, the Ibrahim Foundation in Oman, the Museum of Modern Art in Cairo, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Algeria, as well as private collections. The exhibition aims to familiarize visitors with the artistic history of the Middle East, particularly in relation to Paris in the twentieth century, highlighting the dialogue between Arab artists who came to Paris for training and study. The exhibition discusses the challenges faced in organizing such an event near the Museum of Modern Art in Paris, which plays a significant role in the cultural scene. The exhibition explores the political and artistic dimensions of Arab art, starting from the early 1900s to the late 1980s, marking pivotal moments in the history of modern Arab art.

Language: Arabic
Topics: Artistic Expression and Political Narratives in the Arab WorldThe Role of Paris as a Cultural Hub for Arab Artists in the 20th Century

Yalla Culture - Episode 24 - Banned Books

Duration: 0:09:36.246122

Welcome to episode 24 of Yalla Thaqafa. In this episode, I will be discussing the reasons behind banning books. The first reason is the celebration of Banned Books Week, which has been observed in the last week of September every year since 1982 in America. This event raises awareness about books that have been banned and the reasons behind it. The second reason is the winter in Kuwait, where authorities have been adding more books to the banned list, which now includes over 4000 books. Banning books has been a practice since the early days of writing, and it is still prevalent in many countries. The responsibility for banning books lies with both the government and the public. Reasons for banning books can be religious, ethical, or contain controversial topics. Some famous banned books include religious scriptures, such as the Bible and the Quran, as well as works of fiction like "The Da Vinci Code" and "Lolita". In Egypt, books like "The Da Vinci Code" and "Children of Gebelawi" by Naguib Mahfouz have faced controversies and were banned for a long time. In recent years, some of these books have been allowed back in the market. Other controversial books include "The Satanic Verses" by Salman Rushdie, which sparked outrage in the Muslim world. Ethical reasons for banning books include topics that are deemed morally questionable or contain explicit content. Books like "Lolita" by Vladimir Nabokov and "Lady Chatterley's Lover" by D.H. Lawrence have been banned due to their controversial themes. Overall, banning books remains a contentious issue that reflects societal values and norms.

Language: Arabic
Topics: Censorship of LiteratureThe Evolution of Banned Books: From Religious Texts to Contemporary Novels

Malika Zirari: The play “Arabs of Berlin” returns to the stage 20 years after it was written

Duration: 0:12:49.941333

Welcome to Takafu in today's edition, where we will stop at two plays that were showcased in Paris. The first is "Al-Majnoon" by Tunisian director Taoufik Jebali, based on the text by Gibran Khalil Gibran. The second play is "Al-Arab" which is currently being shown in Paris, directed by the Moroccan Malikah Zarari and written by the actress and playwright Jameela Bakar. The beginning of the journey was when the beloved Habib Bourguiba of Tunisia was commemorated in Paris, sparking a series of shows for "Al-Majnoon" produced by Teatro Theater in Tunisia and directed by Taoufik Jebali. Despite the few differences in the performance compared to its original production almost 20 years ago, the play still holds a touch of spirituality, addressing themes of authority, mistakes, and tyranny that plague the world. We bring you a report from the theater shows in Paris, where the Tunisian artistic community gathered to watch the plays. The play "Majnoon" by Gibran Khalil Gibran captivated the audience for three days, with a strong presence of the Tunisian expatriate community in Paris. The process of bringing the play to Paris was not without its challenges, as there were concerns about misunderstandings regarding its content. However, the director Taoufik Jebali emphasized the literary nature of Gibran's work and the spiritual essence that resonates throughout the play. The reception of the plays in Paris was overwhelmingly positive, with audiences appreciating the artistic and modern approach taken by the directors and playwrights. The plays not only entertained but also provoked thoughts on identity, family, and the impact of suspicion and accusations on individuals and communities. We hope that this season of theater in Paris will continue to bring forth thought-provoking and engaging works that challenge perceptions and inspire audiences.

Language: Arabic
Topics: ArtCultural Exchange and Artistic ExpressionChallenges and Triumphs of Tunisian and Moroccan Theater

Tariq Abdullah: A journey into the shrines of the Eastern heritage

Duration: 0:13:00.266666

Welcome to Thaqafa Yosorna, where today's episode features musician and researcher Tarek Abdullah, who discusses his project "Usul" which explores the concept of music and improvisation. He sheds light on known Eastern musicians and their various maqamat, showcasing diverse rhythms and absolute freedom in improvisation. This project, a tribute to Warda Al-Jazairia, also includes a collaboration with percussionist Adel Shams El-Din, revealing a true reflection of their artistic life. Abdullah recalls their friendship starting in 2013, leading to the production of "Usul." This musical project represents a bigger ambition, combining traditional and modern music elements. Their collaboration has led to a deeper understanding of musical connections and the art of improvisation. Abdullah, a specialist in the Oud and a doctoral candidate in music, shares his journey of researching Oud music in 19th and 20th century Egypt. He delves into the historical recordings and the impact of renowned musicians like Sayed Darwish. Furthermore, Abdullah explains how his artistic and research projects complement each other, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and exploration in music. He highlights the significance of listening to historical recordings and the influence it has on his compositions. In conclusion, Abdullah expresses his gratitude for the support and encouragement of Adel Shams El-Din in his musical endeavors. The journey of discovery and exploration in music continues, with a promise of new and innovative projects on the horizon.

Language: Arabic
Topics: The Significance of Maqamat in Middle Eastern MusicMiddle Eastern MusicCollaborative Creativity in Music

The book “From Istanbul to Haifa”: How did five brothers change the face of history in Syria and Palestine?

Duration: 0:13:07.669333

Welcome to today's cultural segment. Today, we will explore a book titled "From Istanbul to Hadd" by writer Ammar Tanzeef. This book follows the story of five siblings from the Tamimi family and delves into important political events witnessed by the global region between 1890 and 1948. These transformative events led to the collapse of some countries while influencing others significantly. Through this book, we will learn more about the Tamimi family's story and their journey from Beirut. Join us as we uncover the rich history of this family and how it impacted various geographical and historical contexts. As we delve into the story, we will also look into the significance of the first poem by the Syrian poet and the current situation of conflicts like Daesh and the ongoing war in the region. This journey of discovering the past through personal narratives and family history sheds light on how our ancestors navigated through challenging times and shaped our present realities. Through the lens of history, we aim to understand the complexities of our ancestors' struggles and achievements. The narrative also explores the political endeavors of the Tamimi family and their contributions to shaping the political landscape of the Levant region. The family's connections with prominent political figures shed light on the alliances and struggles that influenced the region's history. Through these accounts, we gain insights into the socio-political dynamics and the efforts made by the Tamimi family to navigate through turbulent times. Overall, this book offers a compelling insight into the interconnectedness of personal histories, political landscapes, and cultural legacies. By weaving together personal narratives and historical accounts, the author paints a vivid picture of the Tamimi family's journey and their impact on the region. Join us on this enlightening journey as we uncover the untold stories and hidden histories that shape our understanding of the past.

Language: Arabic
Topics: Historical Narrative of the Arab WorldThe Story of the Tamimi Brothers

Yalla Culture - Episode 29 - Kohl and Habhan

Duration: 0:07:19.854671

Welcome to episode 29 of Yalla Taqafa! Today marks the podcast's first anniversary, as the first episode was recorded in 2018. In this episode, we will be discussing the novel "Kahal wa Habahan" by the author Omar Taher, which is his first novel. I hadn't planned on doing another book review so soon after the last one, but when Omar Taher released this novel earlier this year, I fell in love with it and felt compelled to share my thoughts on it. The novel is a sensitive work that immerses readers in the memories of traditional Egyptian families, evoking sensations of taste, smell, and sound. It beautifully captures the essence of Abdullah, the protagonist, both as a teenager in his family home and as a young man navigating the streets of Cairo from 2008 to 2017. The novel is rich in imagery and explores themes of love, food, and culture. Overall, "Kahal wa Habahan" is a well-crafted novel and a promising start for Omar Taher. It is like a sweet dessert enjoyed with tea after a long and tiring day. Thank you, Omar Taher, for this wonderful literary work.

Language: Arabic
Topics: Omar Taher's Debut Novel Kehl wa HabahanCulinary Symbolism and Emotional Resonance in Kehl wa Habahan

The art of design and architecture and its importance in our present and future

Duration: 0:02:54.033560

The podcast "Art in Two Countries" with Zainab Al-Hashemi discusses the concept of fine arts, which includes painting, sculpture, music, and even poetry. Fine arts can also extend to other industries like craftsmanship, which involves creating products that are beneficial to everyone and are made with artistic methods. The beautiful art delves into the world of design and architecture, where designs hold deeper meanings beyond just beautiful buildings and unique designs. In this episode, Zainab talks about the Museum of the Future in Dubai, a building shaped like an eye that symbolizes seeing into the future. The museum combines the past and future, changing the concept of traditional museums by using innovative technologies. The building reflects a new concept in Sharjah's architecture, boasting Arabic language and featuring three quotes from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, engraved in calligraphy. The Museum of the Future stands out from other museums as a gateway to the future, created by designers and artists who are optimistic and ambitious about the future. It aims to inspire and empower people, uncovering the impact of art on humanity and paving the way for a different future filled with cultural, philosophical, and social perspectives. The museum represents tolerance, coexistence, and the different future viewpoints. It envisions a renewed future for the UAE and the Arab world, shaping the future generations and calling us to dream and work towards a tangible reality.

Language: Arabic
Topics: ArchitectureDubai's Museum of the Future

"The Patient of Delusion": a play that almost cost Molière his life on stage

Duration: 0:13:58.976000

Welcome to the special theater day, starting with the play "Al Majnoun" by Tawfiq Al-Jabali, returning to the stage after more than 20 years. After his successful "Teatro Tunisia" series in the capital, the theater team presented their play "Resonance" on Tuesday at the Habib Bourguiba Theater in Dar Tunis in Paris, with shows that were well received by the eager audience. Nacrine Kasmitani, who followed these shows, expressed regret for being late. The play, written by the renowned author Gibran Khalil Gibran, captivated the audience for three days with a strong presence of the Tunisian community in Paris. The unique charm of the play, which touches on both rational and emotional aspects, resonated well with the audience. The director beautifully crafted the play, showcasing the modern style of Gibran Khalil Gibran's literary character. The play, "Al Majnoun," holds a special allure in every language it is performed in. The play received a warm welcome and applause from the audience, with Tawfiq, a representative of Toshiba theater, expressing pride in their performance. The director, actors, and crew worked tirelessly to present the play, achieving great success and leaving a lasting impact on the audience in Paris. The play "Al Majnoun," originally premiered in November 2001, came to life once again with a new adaptation by the Moroccan director Malika Jairari. This poignant play, which delves into themes of family, suspicion, and terrorism, continues to resonate with audiences in Paris after 20 years. The audience enjoyed the play, appreciating its representation of ordinary characters and relatable themes. The actors, hailing from the suburbs of Paris, brought authenticity to their performances, engaging the audience in a meaningful way. The work of art goes beyond just the actors on stage, showcasing a unique aesthetic approach that aims to captivate audiences with compelling narratives rather than just visual spectacle. This shift towards storytelling and engaging with the audience reflects a desire to bring theater back as a popular form of entertainment, understanding the needs and desires of the people. Overall, the play "Al Majnoun" and its production team have succeeded in creating a memorable and thought-provoking experience for the audience, reaffirming the importance of humility and relatability in theatrical performances.

Language: Arabic
Topics: TheaterTunisian TheaterCross-Cultural Theatrical Exchange

Voices for Gaza: An artistic initiative in France to make the voices of Gazans heard

Duration: 0:13:24.778666

In a recent cultural event, you will learn today about the initiative "Voices for Gaza" launched by the cultural campaign for peace in response to the ongoing violence in France. Get to know about the concert that Lebanese artist Hiba Tawaji is preparing with music composer Ossama Rahbani at the Olympia Persian Hall. This large musical event is scheduled for the 29th of May in Paris, where surprises are awaiting the French and Lebanese audiences. The concert will feature a selection of songs in Lebanese, classical Arabic, and English. It will showcase the longstanding collaboration between Hiba Tawaji and Ibrahim Maalouf, discussing their artistic partnership over the years and the impact of geographical distance on their artistic collaboration in the world of music. The event aims to entertain and enlighten the audience with a blend of diverse music and languages, creating a powerful and memorable experience for all attendees.

Language: Arabic
Topics: MusicCultural Initiative: Voices for Gaza

Mohamed Gohar: When art and architecture converge in describing Alexandria

Duration: 0:13:39.264000

In today's episode, FIFA TV Sony hosted Egyptian artist and architect Mohamed Johar to explore what Alexandria has to offer as part of the artistic project. The artist delved into the city’s cultural and urban aspects, reflecting on its relationship with social changes. Through his work, Johar highlighted how social behaviors impact daily life and the environment of the city. He used watercolors to depict architectural landmarks, emphasizing that photography cannot capture the essence of a place like drawing can. Johar discussed his academic research on Alexandria, focusing on the city's evolution and the nostalgic longing for the past. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the city due to modernization and emphasized the importance of adapting and evolving with time. Through his art, Johar aimed to convey personal impressions and create a dialogue about Alexandria's changing landscape. His academic research, ongoing since 2009, has led to various projects that highlight the city's unique character and challenges. Johar believes that art is a powerful tool for expressing individual perspectives and initiating discussions about a city's identity and future.

Language: Arabic
Topics: Mohamed Johar's Artistic Exploration of AlexandriaAcademic Research and Artistic Expression in Alexandria
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