From 2021, CULTURESCAPES is opening a new festival series dedicated to critical zones that extend beyond the boundaries of nation states. These regions are both emblematic and problematic. Their names often conjure up colorful images from the media, a bouquet of stereotypes that is rarely supported by an understanding of the local realities and their global relevance. They are deeply connected to Europe through centuries of colonial history and postcolonial domination, and thus, there is a lot of listening and learning still to be done.
CULTURESCAPES’ shift in focus comes from the understanding of the severity and pressing issues facing the regions from decolonization and climate change, to sustainable development and socio-environmental relations. These regions are hotspots where culture is at the forefront of reflecting, commenting, rising awareness and offering various scenarios of dealing with these urgent matters. In 2021, CULTURESCAPES will be dedicated to Amazonia, in 2023 — the Sahara, in 2025 — the Himalayas, and in 2027 — the Oceans.
