Haven for Artists is a cultural feminist organisation based in Beirut, Lebanon. Haven is a community of many people, working together to organise, support, campaign, nurture and create in a country in a multi-dimensional crisis, through cultural programming.

In 2023, EAF invited Haven for Artists’ Yasmine Rifaii and Dayna Ash to spend time in residence during the Festival with a programme of activities, connecting with local organisations and initiatives, as well as launching our festival with an Opening Provocation, in conversation with Array Collective.

During the residency, Haven for Artists opened the doors of the French Institute residency space to community groups, charities, and artistic initiatives to build connections rooted in Scotland. They worked collaboratively with artist-led spaces including Rhubaba, EMBASSY Gallery, and Dissenter Space; feminist organisations such as Zero Tolerance, The Young Woman’s Movement, and Engender; and anti-racist organisations including Fringe of Colour, SCORE Scotland, Saheliya, and Re-Act: Refugee Action Scotland. These visits included film screenings and knowledge-sharing as well as film screenings.

Supported by the PLACE Programme, a partnership between Edinburgh Festivals, Scottish Government, City of Edinburgh Council and Creative Scotland. With additional support from the British Council.