CL is the project aims to create embodied multicultural dialogue at the intersection of modalities—contemporary visual art, dance, literature, philosophy, improvisation, eco art, physical theater, voice, and more.
CL consist of workshops and explore several examples of artivist (artist/activist) calls to action and their embedded aesthetics and politics as a starting point for discussion and a practical exercise.
Each CL includes artists from Belarus and European countries with the goal of mutual professional enrichment as well as acquaintance of Europeans colleagues with Belarusian culture and its modern representatives.
CL aims to build dialogue of different cultures, languages and means of art expression and designed to enhance this voice of the Artist and the Human.

Expectations from the Laboratory:

Initially, laboratory participants - interdisciplinary artists from different countries - in a survey process before the start of the laboratory expressed a variety of expectations for the upcoming СL. Here are the key points:
-New Connections:

• Some participants hope to establish new connections during the laboratory.
• They seek opportunities to collaborate, exchange ideas, and potentially initiate joint projects.
• The desire for interdisciplinary interactions is evident.

-Rest and Inspiration:

• A few respondents mentioned wanting to take a break and find inspiration.
• They view the laboratory as a space to relax, recharge, and gain fresh perspectives.

-Activism in Art:

• Some respondents specifically mentioned wanting to exchange different ways of activism in art.
• Interest in exploring social impact through creative expression.

Expectations Met:

• Expectations were not only met but exceeded. Participants anticipated adventure, artist encounters, inspiration, relaxation, and support, and all of these expectations were fulfilled.
• Some participants didn’t have specific expectations initially, but the laboratory surpassed whatever they might have imagined.

Impressions During the Lab:

• The artists themselves left a lasting impression. Their creativity permeated every aspect of the experience.
• The atmosphere was characterized by friendliness, understanding, sincerity, acceptance, and trust.
• The safe environment and beauty of the surroundings contributed to a positive inspiring experience.
• Participants had new experiences and impressions, and they encountered fresh opportunities.

Skills and Knowledge Gained:

Language and Art practice Exploration:

• Participants engaged in various activities, including practicing English, improvisating performance, exploring photography and videography, voice practice, etc.
• Musical experiences, including playing unconventional instruments, were enjoyed.
• Interest in developing sound mixing skills emerged.
• Constructive feedback on their work was received, contributing to a positive experience.

Exploring New Places:

• Participants discovered and fell in love with new locations.
• Intense socializing in beautiful places enriched their experience.

Community and People Insights:

• Participants learned more about people and community dynamics.
• Topics included the political situation in Belarus, individual circumstances impacting life and artistic production, and models of community and solidarity.

Interpersonal Exchange:

• Person-to-person exchange was highly valued.
• Participants gained stories, knowledge, and firsthand art experiences from Belarusian and other countries represented art landscapes.
• Exposure to amazing artworks and new recipes also contributed to their learning.

Group Dynamics and Collaboration:

• Skills related to dealing, acting, and cooperating within a group of previously unknown individuals were developed.
• Participants got to know their colleagues’ work.

Insight into Belarus and Self-Presentation:

• Participants gained insight into the current situation in Belarus.
• Correct pronunciation (emphasizing it’s not Russia) was highlighted.
• Some embraced new performative experiences.
• The skill of self-presentation was learned from more experienced colleagues.
• Some participants learned a few words of Belarusian (especially “ДЗЯКУЙ”).

During the laboratory, there was a strong sense of solidarity and a desire for interaction and mutual assistance among the participants. They discussed common projects, exchanged recommendations, and explored potential collaborations. Some even connected specific works or projects to individuals they met, which bodes well for future interactions. Overall, it appears that the experience fostered a supportive and cooperative atmosphere.

Long-Term Impact and Future Continuation

The continuation of this laboratory seems to be a topic of great interest! Based on the Labs surveys, the potential of such projects is underestimated and needs to be developed. All the participants expresses readiness to continue the laboratory either in its current location or a new one. They aim to capture significant moments beyond the immediate present, focusing on the “eve of the unknown.” Introduction to the Belarusian context highlighted the absence of independent art institutions in Belarus, which led to appreciation of the lab’s freedom from external pressures. In this process, the arts community moves beyond repressive barriers to a more open cultural context, emphasizing strengthening community and deepening exploration rather than exploitation and fixation on monetized themes. While acknowledging the challenges, the participants see potential for establishing something unique and valuable. Maintaining the current format could delve deeper into topics like collective memory, trauma, identity and artivism. Although connecting with institutions is a possibility, the lab’s independence remains precious.