Rezidan, a project inspired by the interaction between Art and Moka Smart City

 The idea for REZIDAN came to the smart city’s art and culture development team while walking through the streets of Moka. Some walls, buildings, bus stops and infrastructure were somewhat timeworn, which made them ask themselves how these public spaces could be used for artistic expression and inspire people in their daily lives? 

Space is a major asset for a city and the Holy Grail for an artist in search of a suitable place to think, design and create. One of the most effective means for Moka Smart City to support art and culture is to provide spaces for artists to think and create. In return, they can use their imagination and creativity to bring a sense of renewal to the community: The city promotes the arts to support this sector in transforming the city. 

Restoring public spaces

REZIDAN is aimed at restoring the city primarily through murals, installations and performances. Established and emerging artists will be invited to collaborate through calls for participation and original works will be commissioned. In collaboration with local partners, Moka will identify the places it seeks to transform and follow up with the owners to obtain the necessary rights to produce the works. In the coming months, new works will be created, and the city will gradually unveil its new look. 

Promoting arts practice

Residencies will, among others, be used by Moka to promote the local arts scene, offering emerging artists everything they need to explore their creative potential. Studios will be available with equipment and research tools, and a mentor will be assigned to each resident. Artists will be invited to produce works for exhibitions and other city projects. Open houses will also be held after each residency. 

A collective effort for society

REZIDAN is above all a collective effort: Moka Smart City calls on artists, businesses, arts organisations and residents to contribute to the project. New partners will progressively be invited to join REZIDAN in the short or long term. Moka wants to take this new initiative to democratise access to art and culture by sharing art with the public in the street; to inspire positive values among residents and new vocations among young people; to make the city an innovative and dynamic hub for art and culture; and to professionalise art practices through residencies and work opportunities. 

Launch of REZIDAN

As part of the launch of REZIDAN, the established artist, Evan Sohun supported an emerging artist, Cendrine Bolaram during her residency. She was also mentored by the gallery owner, Charlie d’Horman. Moreover, Evan created a mural on the wall of the former Balliol College in Helvétia, by the main road in Moka.