The Delfina Foundation in London, designed by Studio Octopi and Shahira Fahmy, opened recently. Led by Delfina Entrecanales, it aims to support young artists and features a homely design that combines original Edwardian architecture with modern functionality. The inaugural residency programme explores the Politics of Food and facilitates artistic collaboration.
Studio Octopi and Shahira Fahmy have designed the new Delfina Foundation in London, which recently opened its doors. The foundation, led by Aaron Cezar, reflects the vision of Delfina Entrecanales, who has dedicated the last 25 years to nurturing young artists, especially from the Middle East and Africa. This new space combines historical Edwardian architecture with modern updates, creating an inviting atmosphere for artistic collaboration.
The design features interconnected Edwardian townhouses that merge original elements like timber beams and fireplaces with glass panels, facilitating open views across the five floors. This creates spaces for a gallery, offices, a library, a communal kitchen, and accommodations for up to eight artists, enhancing the sense of a homey environment.
Cezar describes the foundation as an informal think-tank focused on fostering research and artistic production, strategically located in Victoria’s cultural quarter. Its inaugural residency programme, titled “The Politics of Food,” initiates with various exhibitions featuring the works of ten artists, exploring diverse themes around food.
This programme will run over four years, with periodic exhibitions focusing on different aspects of the politics surrounding food. Entrecanales includes a familial touch to the foundation, stating, “It’s like a family home, and I am the mother.”
The Delfina Foundation, initiated by Delfina Entrecanales, aims to support emerging artists, particularly from underrepresented regions like the Middle East and Africa. With its new space in London, the foundation seeks to create a welcoming environment for artistic development amidst a focus on social issues, particularly through its inaugural residency on food politics. The collaboration between Studio Octopi and Shahira Fahmy illustrates a commitment to blending historical architecture with contemporary artistic practices.
The newly opened Delfina Foundation merges historical Edwardian architecture with modern artistic needs, fostering a community for emerging artists. Its focus on the Politics of Food highlights the foundation’s commitment to addressing social issues through art over a multi-year programme. Entrecanales’ vision of creating a domestic and inclusive environment reflects her dedication to nurturing creative talent.
Original Source: www.wallpaper.com