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Ocean Studio #24 was a vibrant art residency held in the picturesque town of Câmara de Lobos, Madeira, Portugal, from November 6 to November 30, 2024. Over 25 days, four talented artists and creatives in the field of urban creativity collaborated to explore the dynamic intersection of graffiti writing and street art, fostering a unique dialogue between diverse artistic practices and local cultural contexts.
A Collaborative Creative Journey
The residency was thoughtfully divided into four distinct phases, allowing the artists to immerse themselves in Madeira’s cultural environment and create impactful work:
Exploration and connection – The first week was all about discovering the essence of Câmara de Lobos. The artists dove into previous projects by Teatro Metaphora, a local cultural organization, and visited various sites, including the “Casa da Cultura.” This phase also included informal meet-ups with local community members, artists, and associations, setting the stage for meaningful exchanges and building a foundation of mutual understanding.
Sketching and concept development – Armed with insights from their explorations, the artists spent the second week sketching and refining their initial concepts. These sessions were collaborative, encouraging feedback and idea-sharing within the team. Speaking a common language, Italian, greatly enhanced their communication and decision-making, ensuring their projects resonated with the local context and themes.
Bringing ideas to life – The third week was hands-on, with the artists transforming their sketches into tangible artworks. Working on-site, they brought their concepts to life, often with the active participation of the local community. This phase was not just about creating art but also about fostering a shared sense of ownership and connection.
Presentation and celebration – The final week celebrated the fruits of the artists’ labor. Local student groups through guided tours of the artworks, exhibitions, and interactive platforms were organized, creating opportunities for dialogue between the artists, community, and local stakeholders. This phase highlighted the impact of the residency and strengthened the cultural ties forged throughout the project.
Key Outcomes – Ocean Studio #24 was more than just an art residency; it was a platform for cultural exchange, artistic collaboration, and community engagement. The participating artists not only developed and showcased their art but also built lasting relationships with the local community and cultural organizations like Teatro Metaphora. By the end of the residency, both artists and locals walked away with a deeper appreciation for the power of art to bridge cultures and inspire new perspectives.
This project demonstrated how structured creativity, combined with open dialogue and community involvement, can lead to meaningful and impactful artistic expressions. Madeira’s unique charm and the vibrant town of Câmara de Lobos undoubtedly provided the perfect backdrop for this enriching journey.
The artistic residency was supported and funded by Culture Moves Europe.
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