Cultural Exchange: More Harm than Good?

'Cultural exchange' is a much touted yet often rarely examined concept. In the context of the exhibition Points of Departure, this panel discussion explores its complex implications, centring on the key questions: how do artists work within culturally different and predetermined contexts? What is the role and impact of cultural marketing? Are artists and organisations simply fighting for position in an increasingly globalised world? Do nationalist distinctions perpetuate stereotype definitions and perceptions of other cultures?

Speakers include Mark Rappolt, writer and editor of Art Review, artist Rosalind Nashashibi, Andrea Rose, Director of Visual Arts at the British Council, critic JJ Charlesworth and Omar Al-Quattan.

Rosalind Nashashibi is an artist working in film, sculpture, print and photography. She has worked and exhibited internationally over the last decade including a solo show at the ICA in 2009. Later this year she will present a solo exhibition for Objectif Exhibitions in Antwerp and a commission on Gaza for the Imperial War Museum in London.

JJ Charlesworth is an art critic and writer. He studied fine art at Goldsmiths College London, and began writing on contemporary art soon after, publishing frequently in magazines such as Art Monthly, Modern Painters and ArtReview, where he is currently associate editor. He is currently researching a doctoral thesis at the Royal College of Art, on British art criticism in the 1970s. 

Omar Al-Qattan is a filmmaker. He is also a trustee of the AM Qattan Foundation, chairman of the Shubbak 2013 Festival and of the Palestinian Museum.

Caspian Arts Foundation is the Public Programme Supporter