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Ukraine: call for mobilization of the arts and culture community

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In the face of the Russian military offensive against Ukraine, in total violation of international law, ANdEA - National Association of Art Schools, the Atelier des artistes en exil, the Cité internationale des arts and the PAUSE program led by the Collège de France join the French authorities and the international community in condemning these acts of war. War has no place in Europe or elsewhere. While the conflict could result in the exile of five million people, an estimated three million people have already been displaced, the largest population displacement in Europe since 1945. In this dramatic context, it is our responsibility to give ourselves the means to help the affected populations.

 

We call on the arts community throughout France to mobilize in order to allow artists, creators, teachers, researchers and art students, forced to flee or unable to return to their country, to find refuge in France with their families. Our four structures, already involved in policies to welcome artists whose lives have been disrupted by crisis, war and persecution, stand alongside institutions under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture in all disciplines to support their emergency reception projects (housing, means of subsistence or work contracts, creative spaces, etc.) and to help them make connections.

 

For artists, the PAUSE program organizes residencies for artists and cultural professionals and their families within the network of public establishments of the Ministry of Culture and accredited structures, for a period of three months. The Cité internationale des arts, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, provides live-in studios in Paris and also wishes to offer residencies in the regions within partner structures.

As far as visual arts and design students are concerned, many art schools in the region are committed to helping welcome them and their families by mobilizing to provide safe spaces, means of subsistence, a working environment and visibility for their struggle.

The Atelier des artistes en exil coordinates the requests and follows up on the people welcomed on the French territory. To this end, it has set up a reception, orientation and advice platform, in Ukrainian and Russian, which provides reliable, unified and verified answers. The workshop for artists in exile also offers French courses, legal advice and support for integration into artistic networks.

 

PAUSE, the Atelier des artistes en exil, the Cité internationale des arts and ANdEA organize connection points for people to receive our message.

We recall the fundamental right of every individual to seek refuge, regardless of their country of origin or nationality. More than a right, it is a necessity and it is our duty to do everything possible to ensure a dignified reception.

 

 

The complete press release to read HERE.