What does it mean to decolonize our thinking? In this episode of the afikra podcast, we chat with Idriss Jebari, assistant professor at Trinity College Dublin, and discuss language, colonialism and 20th century North Africa. Tracking the transformation of North African countries through colonialism and independence, we learn about the ways that thinkers thro ... Show More
Nov 17
Bernard Khoury | On Karantina, Solidere & Practicing Architecture in Lebanon
<p>We visited renowned architect Bernard Khoury in his studio in Karantina, who offered a critical, unvarnished look at the reality of practicing architecture in Lebanon, contrasting it with the sugarcoated story of the "Phoenix coming out of its ashes". He discusses his career b ... Show More
45m 24s
Nov 10
Nurturing Authentic Voices in Filmmaking in the Arab World | Rana Kazkaz
<p>We delve into the evolving landscape of filmmaking in the region, the importance of authentic, locally rooted narratives, and the critical role of institutions like the Doha Film Institute in fostering emerging talent. Award-winning filmmaker and associate professor at Northwe ... Show More
44m 12s
Nov 4
"The Future is Not a Grave" With the NYU Institutes | Masha Kirasirova & Tishani Doshi
<p>"The Future Is Not a Grave" is a three-day workshop happening next week at NYUAD which explores futurisms and futurescapes across the MENA, Gulf, and Indian Ocean regions. In this collaborative episode with NYU Abu Dhabi Institute, conveners Tishani Doshi and Masha Kirasirova ... Show More
53m 29s
Feb 2025
Building Empire Records & Repping Your Community | Live Quartertones With Ghazi Shami & Suhel Nafar at Sole DXB 2024
<p>This episode of Quartertones was recorded live on the Sole DXB stage in Dubai on December 13, 2024. Founder of Empire Records Ghazi Shami, and head of Empire Iwana Sohail Nafar explore the challenges and future of the Arab music industry, from Ghazi's connection to Palestinian ... Show More
57m 38s
Apr 2025
Short Stories from Arab Cities | Exploring Urban Narratives With the Co-Editors of "Mudun" Reem Khorshid & Faris Bseiso
In this episode of Ehkili, we speak with Reem Khorshid and Faris Bseiso about their literary project Mudun, published by Kaph Books and supported by the Barjeel Art Foundation. They trace the origins of this anthology of short stories about Arab cities, which began as a pandemic ... Show More
48m 37s
Nov 6
Memes in Morocco: Darija, Rap & Digital Activism | Dr Cristina Moreno Almeida
<p>We explore why certain cultural productions thrive exclusively online, the debate around meme humor versus emotional resonance, and how memes can serve as a form of social critique. Dr. Cristina Moreno Almeida, from Queen Mary University of London, joins us and discusses her r ... Show More
53m 39s
Aug 20
Decoding Empires: Akala on Hip Hop & South-South Solidarity
<p>Rapper, writer, and thought leader Akala joins us on Quartertones live at Sole DXB to talk about his early career steps in London, the city's unique blends due to its history, and his drive to connect with diverse audiences. He shares insights into the impact of colonialism an ... Show More
32m 15s
Jan 2024
Amal Murkus & Firas Zreik at Habibi Fest 2023 | Quartertones Live at Joe's Pub
<p>We partnered with Habibi Festival for a six-night celebration of ancient + contemporary sounds from Lebanon, Tunisia, Syria, Morocco, Palestine, Algeria and more! It all took place from October 1-7 at Joe's Pub in NYC. </p><p>Each night we taped live conversations with the art ... Show More
14m 44s