Contemporaine de Nîmes: First Edition Launches with Intergenerational Focus

The first edition of Contemporaine de Nîmes, a new triennial contemporary art festival, will take place from April 5 to June 23, 2024, in the ancient Roman city of Nîmes, France. Artistic directors Anna Labouze and Keimis Henni have themed the event 'Une nouvelle jeunesse' ('A New Youth'), exploring youth, intergenerational transmission, and heritage. The program centers on a main exhibition titled 'La Fleur et la Force' ('The Flower and the Force'), featuring emerging artists paired with established mentors such as Judy Chicago. Participatory projects involve local groups: Rayane Mcirdi works with women from association Les 1000 couleurs on a fanzine; Feda Wardak collaborates with young Compagnons du Devoir and high school students; Aïda Bruyère and Valentin Noujaïm filmed with lycée students for video installations. The triennial also includes 'houses' in various neighborhoods hosted by local cultural organizations, hosting artists in residence for three years. The BIM (Bureau Indépendant de Médiation Culturelle) develops inclusive mediation. Associated programs involve the city's art school, a contemporary art center, and a local artist-run space. The festival aims to foster conviviality, collective art-making, and dialogue across generations.