Dr. Shahd AlShammari is a literature professor and a writer. She has authored numerous titles, Head above water, a memoir, being the latest. Head above water was shortlisted for the Barbellion Prize for Literature.

Her research areas include illness narratives and disability studies. Dr. Shahd also conducts The Literary Mentor platform for supporting literary appreciation and offers writing workshops and masterclasses focusing on reflective and transformative writing.

In this episode of Culture Corner, we discuss her extensive writing on illness and stigma, but also the value and importance of writing in dealing with conflict or engaging in transformative and healing writing.

Social Media:

Instagram

YouTube

Credits:

Host: Ksenia Graovac

Project Coordinator: Farah Omrani

Editing: Mohamed Amin

Design: Mariam Mandani

Produced by: Promenade Culture Centre 2024

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Shahad Bishara is a curator and designer from Kuwait who has been involved in the arts for over fifteen years. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Art from San Diego State University in California and has previously worked as the Exhibitions and Events Manager at Dar Al Funoon Gallery.

Through Visual Therapy, she has independently curated and managed art projects, collections, exhibitions, cultural events, workshops and talks in different spaces around Kuwait.

In this episode we are discussing whether art can be a lifelong calling and how support for young artists makes a difference for the future of our society. Shahad is dedicated to finding ways to support art and artists through consultancy, building collections, art commissions, etc. She also finds time to conduct her passion projects.

Social Media:

Instagram

YouTube

Credits:

Host: Ksenia Graovac

Project Coordinator: Farah Omrani

Editing: Mohamed Amin

Design: Mariam Mandani

Produced by: Promenade Culture Centre 2024

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

The very first guest of our Culture Corner podcast is Mishari AlNajjar.

Mishari AlNajjar is a practicing architect in Babnimnim Design Studio and an artist. Mishari’s research explores the built environment in Kuwait City. His work stresses a multidisciplinary approach where the realms of architecture, textile and storytelling collide, shedding light on various structures with a historical and cultural significance. His work was exhibited in group shows in Kuwait, Riyadh and the United Arab Emirates.

In this episode, we are discussing the road one takes in becoming an artist, the role of documentation in preserving our buildings and the importance of keeping the connection with creating items by hand.

Social Media:

Instagram

YouTube

Credits:

Host: Ksenia Graovac

Project Coordinator: Farah Omrani

Editing: Mohamed Amin

Design: Mariam Mandani

Produced by: Promenade Culture Centre 2024

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED