Arts Lab 6.0: Ziad Ameen - Month 6

Sadly, we have reached the final station of this journey. This month began with heavy snowfall in Târgu Frumos, marking the start of our preparations for the third exhibition at the French Institute in Iași. The main challenge this time was figuring out how to exhibit our diverse artworks in the hall of the French Institute at Braunstein Palace while also organizing workshops alongside the exhibition.

Thankfully, the three days passed smoothly without any major struggles. We transported the artworks day by day, along with the necessary tools for the workshops. For me, the first and third days were particularly special, as I was able to connect deeply with the students attending the workshops. On the second day, we visited the Cucuteni Museum at Alexandru Ioan Cuza University. From this visit, I learned that in the early stages of the Cucuteni civilization, pottery was engraved before evolving to include painted designs.

I continued working with local volunteers to create artworks inspired by Cucuteni culture. The goal of this workshop was to bring more color to Târgu Frumos by incorporating Cucuteni symbols into the town’s artistic landscape, reminding local people of their cultural roots. The youth volunteers enthusiastically sketched their visions of their own history, integrating elements from this ancient civilization.

Meanwhile, I focused on my own artwork by researching Cucuteni art, drawing inspiration from books and museum exhibits. After my research, I decided to explore the theme of motherhood in the Cucuteni era, as women played a significant role in ancient society. I wanted to express this idea through a 3D model representing a mother and child, symbolized using Cucuteni animal figures. I began by sketching different forms and then transformed my drawings into a 3D model, which I printed with the support of Moldova School, the only place in Târgu Frumos with a 3D printer. This was a unique experience for me, as I had never used 3D printing before. Despite the challenge of learning new software, I was pleased with the outcome of my first attempt. Once the two 3D models were complete, I began preparing the painted version. Since my concept was well-developed, the painting process did not take long.

Finally, we were all ready for the Cucuteni exhibition an event I had eagerly awaited since the start of Arts Lab 6.0. I was happy with the feedback on my artwork and proud of my colleagues, as our pieces were connected meaningfully. The result of our teamwork was truly impressive. It was especially fulfilling to see the local youth volunteers’ artworks displayed alongside ours as international artist volunteers. 

During the Moroccan Intercultural Night, organized by Soukaina, I had the opportunity to explore many aspects of Moroccan traditions. I tasted new foods, listened to diverse Moroccan music, and learned about various cultural elements. The timing of the event was perfect, as it coincided with Iftar during Ramadan, making it a special moment for all of us, we realized it was the first time we had shared a meal together at the same table. One of the most fascinating parts of the presentation was the traditional horse racing, which was entirely new to me. The event was a rich and eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of Moroccan culture.

Looking back on this period, I feel incredibly grateful for everything I have learned. This experience has been a journey of artistic growth, cultural exchange, and personal development. I’m thankful for the people I met, the skills I gained, and the memories we created together.

Report by  Ziad Ameen, a volunteer from Egypt and one of the 14 participants in Arts Lab 6.0, a project co-funded by the European Union through the European Solidarity Corps program.