What do we need to know about the MENA region today?

One of the important developments required in the region is the expansion of a critical discourse on local artistic practices. It is crucial to gain an in-depth understanding of the various generations of art practitioners, through detailed studies of their work in relation to the relevant contexts and debates. Research grants and publication opportunities would benefit this field, in which work is currently being done but which requires greater support structures.

Supporting research would provide an academic understanding of local art production outside the art market, which currently dominates the way art is made and understood in the region. MENA would also greatly benefit from an increased number of research grants for artists which would support the production of their work, as well as the development of their practices – and these grants need to be available to artists from all generations and at whatever stage of their careers.