MANIFEST Workshop: 

Artistic Funding - A Crash Course

On March 14th, the MANIFEST team presented MANIFEST Workshop: Artistic Funding - A Crash Course, catering to visual artists eager to enhance their grant proposal writing skills.



The workshop was designed to provide the artists in MANIFEST with the tools and strategies necessary to write successful grant proposals. Through various presentations and interactive exercises, participants delved into various funding opportunities, discussed grant writing techniques, and explored budgeting strategies.



Stefanie Thomas Gilbert-Roberts and Laura Werup, representing respectively CUMEDIAE and Khora, started the session by guiding participants through exploring funding sources and engaging in discussions and activities to analyse statistics and understand the critical role funding plays in artists' endeavours. A pivotal aspect highlighted during the workshop was the significance of understanding the agendas behind funding opportunities and crafting clear narratives that align with funders' objectives.



The workshop aimed to equip the artists with practical tools and insights to navigate the grant writing process effectively, empowering them to secure funding for their artistic endeavours and contribute to the cultural landscape. The consortium plans to continue offering workshops and resources to support artists in their professional development and grant-writing efforts. Stay tuned for future events and opportunities!



MANIFEST EU at the Invisible Festival

Brussels recently hosted the Invisible Festival, held from March 21st to 24th. Organised by XR4Heritage, this unique festival aimed to shed light on hidden stories from the past through immersive art experiences.



Set in the vibrant heart of Europe, the festival invited attendees to delve into overlooked aspects of history using innovative technology like 3D avatars. Participants explored diverse narratives through panels, exhibitions, and networking sessions and connected with professionals and international guests. Noteworthy was the presence, among the guests, of the French producer, director and screenwriter Euzhan Palcy and the Belgian Secretary of State for Gender Equality, Equal Opportunities and Diversity and Deputy to the Minister of Mobility Marie-Colline Leroy.



The booth by MANIFEST focused on revisiting histories of colonisation and the trade of enslaved people, sparking discussions and offering fresh perspectives on such topics. Although not representing the project, the consortium was pleased to see the work of MANIFEST artists David Gumbs, Magalie Mobetie and Daniela Jakrlova' Riva as part of the augmented circuit. Moreover, Khora’s business developer, Kathrine Fremming, was featured in the round table that was held on Friday. The panel discussed best practices and trends for the future of media in the age of artificial intelligence. It explored the potential opportunities and obstacles with this tool in modern days.



The Invisible Festival provided a fresh and engaging way to interact with history, using art and technology to unearth untold stories and encourage reflection. It left a lasting impact, emphasising the importance of embracing all aspects of our shared past.

International Day 

for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Did you know that March 21st was the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination?



On that day we remember the Sharpeville massacre occurred on 21 March 1960. After demonstrating against anti-black pass laws, a crowd of about 7,000 black protesters went to the police station, where the South African Police (SAP) opened fire. There were 249 victims in total, including 29 children, with 69 people killed and 180 injured.

Let's unite in the #FightRacism campaign to promote tolerance, equality, and anti-discrimination worldwide. From sports to popular culture, let's stand together against xenophobia and intolerance. MANIFEST encourages action for a more inclusive and just world. Together, we can make a difference.