The eighth cycle of the Masaha Residency program brings together 12 visual artists from around the globe to interrogate and expand upon the subject Obsolete Technology. The term obsolete sparks critical reflections on the evolution of technologies and the ongoing influence on contemporary societies.

Over 12 weeks of inquiry, artists have researched the theme from a variety of departure points. Some have revitalized discarded or outdated technologies to examine rapid industrial and social evolutions. Others have turned to the Greek origin of the word technology—technê (τέχνη), meaning art, skill, and craft—to reflect on lost practices in applied sciences, such as alchemy and astronomy.

Speculative fiction is used to explore obsolescence by the way of alternative realities. Through worldbuilding, artists question ideas of progress by highlighting the relationship between technology , consumerism, surveillance, and nationhood. Obsolete objects and sounds are used as portals, referencing shifts in cultural consumption and experiences of acculturation.  

 Artists celebrate the continued relevance of foregone technologies, honoring the precision, obsession, and artistry embedded in ‘analog’ processes. As you view the works in progress, we encourage you to join us in observing the complex outcomes of human curiosity, inventor of technology. 

Masaha Residents:     

1. Assem Hendawi
2. Jolene Mok
3. Latifa Abdulrahman
4. Luz Peuscovich
5. Mahmood Sharif
6. Mariam Basowad
7. Omnia Elamir
8. Sarah Albaiz
9. Suha Alattas
10. Thomas Egoumenides
11. Yijue Zeng
12. Zeina Bukhari

Misk Art Institute’s Masaha Residency program began in 2021 with the aim of supporting artistic research and conceptual practice through a research-based approach.  This showcase is a culmination of works in progress, developed through the 12- week program with the assistance of masterclasses and curatorial mentorship.

  Curatorial Mentors:  

1.   Amanda Abi Khalil  
2.   Munira Alsayegh