Jaou Tunis: Lina Lazaar on Art, Identity, and Community

Lina Lazaar, vice president of the Kamel Lazaar Foundation, discusses the eighth edition of Jaou, a cultural caravan she founded in 2013. The 2018 edition in Tunis focused on heritage and identity, using four historic buildings as pavilions: a deconsecrated church (Eglise de l'Aouina) for Water, the modern Imprimerie Cérès (1971) for Fire, the mausoleum Zaouia of Sidi Boukhrissane for Earth, and Dar Baccouche (19th century) for Air. Each pavilion hosted exhibitions curated by four women, involving over forty artists. The theme emerged from post-2011 revolution disillusionment, aiming to spark dialogue on social divisions and shared urban life. Previous Jaou editions took place in Jeddah (2013-2015), addressing migration and social gaps. Lazaar also curated 'The Absence of Paths' for Tunisia's first Venice Biennale pavilion since 1958, featuring interactive kiosks that prompted visitors to reflect on identity. The project faced bureaucratic hurdles but aimed to challenge stereotypes and foster introspection.