About us!
SWANA Chronicles is more than a website; it’s a dynamic project dedicated to archiving, celebrating, and connecting women artists of south-west Asia and north Africa (SWANA). Our initial release showcases a unilingual platform in English, with plans for inclusion of Arabic and French languages to ensure accessibility to a broader audience.
SWANA Chronicles is a living chronicle that plunges into the depths of women’s artistic achievements, from pioneers of the early 20th century to contemporary visionaries challenging boundaries today. We aim to rectify historical imbalances in the representation of women artists by curating a digital space that captures the essence of each artist’s journey and their profound impact on the local, regional and global art scene.
Our objectives:
Collecting and Presenting Information: We compile comprehensive information about women artists in the SWANA region, creating an inspiring showcase.
Serving as a Resource: Our website is a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and art enthusiasts, fostering exploration and understanding.
Facilitating Networking and Collaborations: We foster connections, networking opportunities, and meaningful discussions among women artists in the region.
Giving Exposure and Visibility: Through online exhibitions, interviews, and feature articles, we contribute to a more balanced representation within the art scene.
Founded in 2022 by Nahla Soliman, an Egyptian researcher and cultural practitioner, SWANA Chronicles was officially launched in February 2024.
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“The Journey started when I enrolled in an online course about women in the arts. Disappointed by the focus on Western artists, and driven by passion to discover more about women artists from my region, I started collecting information and carried out an extensive research for almost two years. As my list grew, a vision ignited: to create a project that empowers the local art scene by showcasing these remarkable women.
Through social media, websites, and emails, I reached out to the artists themselves. Building bridges, galleries and art organizations became invaluable allies, welcoming the initiative, facilitating connections, and sharing their expertise. And here we are” ~ Nahla
Special thanks to Atassi Foundation, Gypsum Gallery and Safarkhan Gallery.