where arts and crafts meet social research and community organizing
Abastan is a community project run by artists, cultural practitioners and volunteers united by common values.
We are revitalizing the building of a former textile factory in Tumanyan, Armenia, to create a space in which we live, have fun, create in workshops, do research and implement artistic and civic projects.
Abastan aims to be a safe haven where people in challenging moments of their personal and professional lives can find new directions through learning and creative collaboration.
Where arts and crafts meet social research and community organizing
Abastan
Community project run by artists, cultural practitioners and volunteers united by common values.
We are revitalizing the building of a former textile factory in Tumanyan, Armenia, to create a space in which we live, have fun, create in workshops, do research and implement artistic and civic projects.
Abastan aims to be a safe haven where people in challenging moments of their personal and professional lives can find new directions through learning and creative collaboration.
Featured Projects
Abastan Project Goals
Community and collaboration
To unite cultural actors and volunteers from different countries, as well as residents of Tumanyan, in everyday life and work
Art projects
To provide space, resources and vibes for artists to empower them to create
Education
To create an educational space where residents and guests of Abastan can share knowledge and experience
Intercultural exchange
To facilitate intercultural exchange and create opportunities to reimagine our own identities through both artistic practices and experiences of meaningful co-living and collaborating with people from different cultures
Historical heritage and archiving
To preserve and rethink the historical heritage of the factory and the city of Tumanyan in the context of a rapidly changing world
Home away from home
To be a hospitable home and a supportive community for people who find themselves away from home and loved ones due to wars, persecution and other hardships
Strengthen civil society
To provide a space for gaining experience and practical skills in democtratic decision-making, transparent governance and accountability, non-discrimination and inclusiveness, as well as conflict prevention and resolution.
Enviromentalism
To promote sustainability and help create a cleaner greener environment around us through community projects.