Circular Catalysts at "Centrala" Arts Space in Birmingham

After a notable success at the Romanian Cultural Institute in London, where it could be visited between 6-19 November 2023, and after the launch of the virtual version of this exhibition that can be viewed HERE, the photography, object and sound exhibition "Circular Catalysts" is on display at Centrala Arts Space in Birmingham. This multimedia project aimed at generating new collaborations between designers, artists and craftsmen from Romania and the UK and facilitating fertile conversations around sustainable production practices and processes is organised by the British Council Romania and the Romanian Cultural Institute.

"Circular Catalysts" presents objects, texts, sound and photographs captured by Ioana Cîrlig during five creative residencies where contemporary artisans from the UK were hosted by local organisations working with traditional craftsmen in rural Romania. The exhibition examines traditional knowledge systems and community practices and the role they play in sustainability. In addition to the original concept, the exhibition at Centrala adds a focus on the crafts of the Roma communities and is accompanied by a programme to involve the Romanian community in Birmingham. 

The programme is curated by Alicja Kaczmarek and can be consulted HERE.

The exhibition runs until 24 February and the official opening takes place on 2 February. The entrance is free, but please book for the opening night events starting at 6 PM.

Official opening programme:

02/02  

18:00 Opening remarks by Aura Woodward, director of the Romanian Cultural Institute in London

19:30 Rosamaria performs ‘Ocean: Import & Export’

20:30 Rosamaria performs ‘Ocean: Import & Export’

+ 12 minute film screening of Mahala (on a loop all evening).

Rosamaria Kostic Cisneros is a dancer, Romani studies scholar, Dance historian and critic, a Flamenco historian, sociologist, curator, and peace activist. Rosamaria grew up in and received her education in the US, she has lived in various parts of the world as a professional dancer, choreographer, sociologist, and qualified teacher. Rosamaria has devoted her life to dance and education, she uses dance, history, activism, and education to communicate, share, and inspire others in their own development and creative journey. Rosamaria uses her heritage to have empathy, passion, compassion, and a critical eye to the world around us. Rosamaria has a B.F.A. in Dance from the University of Wisconsin, an MA in Dance History and Criticism from the University of New Mexico, and a PhD. in Sociology from the University of Barcelona. She is currently a research artist at Coventry University’s Centre for Dance Research and also works as an independent artist, dancer, curator, and teacher.