Melanie Eddy was selected by the British Council’s department of Architecture, Design, Fashion to undertake a two month residency focusing on jewellery design in Afghanistan. The aim of this creative residency is to develop a collaborative link between the UK and Afghanistan through applied arts – more specifically through jewellery design. A reciprocal exchange will take place in which a contemporary jeweller from Afghanistan will undertake a similar residency in London. This creative exchange is an example of the British Council’s work in countries whose perception is often framed by the current political situation. The British Council’s art programmes in Afghanistan, and other countries in the region, address these negative stereotypes through creative dialogue. Other recent creative exchanges have focused on fashion and textiles and taken place in Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Pakistan.
The British Council is the UK ’s international organisation for cultural relations. We build engagement and trust for the UK through the exchange of knowledge and ideas between people worldwide.
The British Council’s global arts team works with the best of British creative talent to develop innovative, high-quality events and collaborations that link thousands of artists and cultural institutions around the world, drawing them into a closer relationship with the UK.
Through our programme in Architecture, Design and Fashion we work with the best of British design in order to create strong international links across the globe. With partners we develop touring exhibitions, seminars, workshops and exchanges which celebrate the best of British and international design, celebrate international co-operation in design, encourage critical reflection and promote creative expression.
For further information on the British Council and it’s programmes please visit: www.britishcouncil.org
Afghan Arts Adventure 