Ahwa Habeeb

About

As a curator, my practice is deeply rooted in exploring the role of voice within curatorial frameworks. I am interested in how voice emerges, is interpreted, and serves as an expression of situatedness. My work aims to amplify these voices, challenging traditional paradigms that often marginalise diverse perspectives. Thoughtful, committed, and hardworking, I enjoy the aspects of critical research and writing, thriving on collaboration to create meaningful and impactful experiences.

My recent project, “The Enigma of Arrival,” undertaken in partnership with the Triangle Network, is a testament to my commitment to these values. This project delved into the complexities of diasporic identity and the fragmented nature of ‘diasporic time.’ Collaborating with six other curators, “The Enigma of Arrival” featured three commissioned works and a workshop, with contributions from practitioners Duong Thuy Nguyen, Rieko Whitfield, and Joshua Woolford. Each practitioner brought a unique perspective on displacement, migration, and the search for belonging, enriching the dialogue surrounding these themes.

By working closely with these artists and curators, we created a space for free, candid expression from unique perspectives. The dynamic and fulfilling collaborative process allowed me to engage with a diverse range of people and working styles, emphasising the transformative power of collective voice in shaping and enriching curatorial narratives. The project incorporated multimedia installations, personal narratives, and interactive elements, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own identities and the broader social contexts that shape them. This approach underscored the importance of presenting diverse voices in a way that honours their complexity and depth, challenging viewers to engage with the material on a personal and emotional level.

The power of collective voice is central to my curatorial philosophy. I believe that curatorial spaces should be platforms for multiple voices to converge, creating dialogues that are rich, complex, and transformative. This belief is reflected in my curatorial projects, which prioritise collaboration and inclusivity. I am particularly interested in how voice manifests in curatorial practice, where it is situated, and its potential for candid expression. This focus on voice aligns with concepts put forth by thinkers like Zdenka Badovinac and Michel Foucault, who explore the transformative power of fearless speech and the contextual nature of situated knowledge.