The Art and Culture Development Foundation and CCA continue in their commitment to preserving the historical mahallas of Tashkent, safeguarding their unique cultural and historical heritage. In a strategic collaboration with the renowned architectural bureau Studio KO from Morocco, the Foundation and CCA spearheaded the establishment of Artist Residencies within the Old City of Tashkent.

This initiative underscores the government's enhanced support for culture and the arts, aligning with broader efforts to foster a comfortable urban environment that respects and preserves the city's authenticity.

CCA Artist Residencies serve as pivotal platforms for cultural exchange, facilitating dialogue, collaboration, and the realisation of joint artistic endeavours.

By immersing themselves in the history and distinctive characteristics of their host country, artists will gain invaluable insights, fostering mutual understanding between diverse cultures.

The residencies offer comprehensive support, providing artists with living quarters, creative studios, materials, tools, and opportunities to engage with audiences, enabling them to discuss and showcase their work.

Two sites have been designated for this creative initiative: the Matkarimboy madrasah in Namuna mahalla, which was restored and preserved as an art venue, and a building in Khast Imom mahalla, formerly a pre-school educational institution. Both sites are situated in the Olmazar district of Tashkent.

Namuna mahalla serves as the central hub of the residence, housing the living quarters for the majority of residents, as well as art production workshops, presentation spaces, community programs, and cultural leisure activities—all within a single, cohesive area.

The historic madrasa building is designed to accommodate up to four residents specializing in contemporary art, design, crafts, architecture, culinary arts, film, and sound arts.

Location of Namuna mahalla

Complementing this, a newly constructed production facility offers workshops for printmaking, ceramics, textiles, and woodworking. Additionally, a dedicated sound studio is available for visiting artists.

The Namuna site also features an exhibition hall, a shop, a café, a garden, and outdoor public areas, providing versatile spaces for various events.

Khast Imom offers living quarters for a single resident, complete with a guest room, a meeting hall, and a small courtyard with a garden. The site also houses the administrative offices of the residence and includes a small bakery, meticulously restored to its original location following the area's reconstruction.

Location of Khast Imom mahalla