Elisava Horizons

Route Artlantique - Senegal

Route Artlantique Senegal Elisava
Route Artlantique Elisava
Route Artlantique Elisava
Route Artlantique Elisava

Basic data

Dates: 2023 (TBC)
Place: Casamance, Senegal
Price: 1.750 € (flights not included). 15% discount for Alumni, Elisava and LCC Students. The price includes insurance during the stay in Senegal
Registration deadline: 2023 (TBC)
Minimum number of students: 24
Direction: Ramon Llonch, Saúl Baeza
Language: Programme in English/Spanish/French
Note: Out of respect and caution for the artisan communities that will be visited during the stay in Senegal, students are requested to bring a recent negative Covid-19 test result

Introduction

Route Artlantique is the first creative workshops journey held in Senegal. An educational exchange between African and international students, teachers and professionals from all creative disciplines.

Senegal is a focus for creativity in West Africa, where ancestral knowledge and techniques coexist with current concerns. The route we propose will put participants in touch with designers, craftsmen and local communities with global notoriety.

  • Discover the potential of African creativity.
  • Build a permanent bridge of communication using the language of creativity.
  • Understand how globalization may have reduced distances, but not differences.
  • Assume nomadism as a fundamental point of future work.
  • Challenge the limits of design, culture and production.
  • Participate in a unique experience that you can only live away from your daily routines.

The programme, a two-week stage organized by Ramón Llonch, founder of the Route Artlantique, includes visits to workshops by local Senegalese designers and artists, using wood, textiles, batik or jewelry, among other materials. With the knowledge of the tools and processes linked to each designer and understanding of context and people, students will develop various projects.

Located between Gambia and Guinea-Bissau, Casamance is a culturally and geographically unique part of Senegal, with a proud heritage, an ethnical melting pot, a lush paradise of greenery, vibrant waterways guarded by bountiful mangroves, palm-trees and verdant forests.

We will be located in Edioungou, a small village near Oussouye; and during two weeks we will move around different areas, from east to west, meeting local artisans, sharing techniques and discovering the beauty, the mysteries and traditions of “casamançais” people.

Who?

It is addressed to design students and other creative people who are motivated to work in different situations, with the ability to give and receive. Open-minded people who are receptive to new cultures and traditions, and who want to incorporate an authentic intercultural experience to their portfolio. People with the ability to collaborate within a group while enjoying a unique atmosphere.

Why?

We want to create a multicultural design community. We believe that designers hold the key to changing the world for the better in all that they create, build and envision for humanity. We believe that exchanging with designers from different cultures brings us closer together, and it teaches us about ourselves and the world around us, while allowing us to create a long-lasting and prosperous change for the planet and its people. Senegal’s increasingly sophisticated design scene is the perfect place to host this unique learn-through-travel experience. The aim is to give visibility and echo the uniqueness of African talents, most of them still unknown to the rest of the world, and even in the continent itself. Route Artlantique will also be a way to attract other designers and to preserve local and traditional techniques alive.

Contact and more information

route@elisava.net

Practical information

What to pack

The most important aspect of Route Artlantique African Workshops for Creatives is its educational element, but making sure you also are aware being in a country you may not know very well can be a challenge. We recommend you to follow our simple advises, to exercise your common sense, stay away from dark streets, rely on taxis and avoid wearing expensive jewelry to make the most of your time abroad and you don’t end up overwhelmed.

Valid passport

To enter Senegal, a passport valid for at least three months from entry is required by all nationals of Australia, British, Canadian, Other EU and USA. You may be refused entry if not evidence of return or onward travel can be produced.

Visas

Visas for Senegal are not required by nationals mentioned above.

Health insurance

The fee price includes insurance during the stay in Senegal, provided by Elisava.

Vaccines and medicines

Although the risk for the average traveler in Senegal is low, we ask that you avoid risk and that each person ensures that they are up to date on routine vaccinations before this trip. To travel to Senegal, yellow fever and hepatitis vaccinations are required. For malaria, it is compulsory that each person carries their own dose of Malarone or substitutes.

Currency

The currency unit is West African Franc (CFA). Banks and change offices are found in all larger towns across the country.

Packing

Please keep all personal luggage within the relevant airline’s restriction i.e. 20 kg or less. If travelers can, we recommend they bring along a backpack (preferably with built-in frame) and a day bag. Large suitcases are not recommended, as they can be difficult to store on the vehicles.

Weather

The weather is likely to be warm during the day but could be cooler or even rainy in the south of the country.

Checklist

  • Photocopies of passport, visa & health insurance information.
  • Small daypack/backpack.
  • Prescription medications packed in carry-on bag, in original bottles (includes inhalers, etc.)
  • Antibacterial hand gel.
  • Over-the-counter medications for allergies, headaches, small scrapes, etc.
  • Insect repellent & anti-itch products for mosquito bites.
  • Reusable water bottle to refill each day.
  • Towel.
  • Waterproof sunscreen SPF 30+.
  • Small ashlight or headlamp with spare batteries.
  • Toiletries (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste/brush, etc.).

Optional Items

  • Camera with extra memory card, battery and charger (converter may be necessary).
  • Bags for toiletries and wet clothes.
  • Binoculars.

Clothing

  • Athletic shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for site seeing.
  • Sandals or flip-flops (secure sandals with straps are best).
  • Swimsuit.
  • Sleeping clothes.
  • Lightweight raincoat.
  • Sunhat or sunglasses/contacts (bring an extra pair if prescriptive).

Do not bring

  • Flashy or expensive jewelry
  • Electronic devices that could be damaged on this trip

Programme + daily itinerary

Oaxaca

Oaxaca Elisava
Oaxaca Elisava
Oaxaca Elisava
Oaxaca Elisava

Basic data

Design, people and culture in Mexico
Elisava + CADA Foundation
Programme Direction: Carmen Malvar
Duration: 2023 (TBC)
Language: Programme in English
Place: Oaxaca, Mexico
Price: 1.750 € (flights not included). 15% discount for Alumni and Elisava students. The price includes insurance during the stay in Mexico
Registration deadline: 2023 (TBC)
Note: Out of respect and caution for the artisan communities that will be visited during the stay in Oaxaca, students are requested to bring a recent negative Covid-19 test result

Introduction

Oaxaca is synonymous of biological and cultural diversity. It is a paradise where the shapes, colours, aromas and wisdom of the pre-Hispanic past merge with contemporary expressions, thus creating a mosaic of exchanges, dialogues and social discussions of our times that offer unique experiences to its residents and visitors. Oaxaca is currently a source of inspiration for artists, designers, and art lovers, and a space for growth and learning for creators. In Mexico, design has always existed everywhere: in the corner shop, in the markets, in the gardens and, in general, in everyday life; we are a culture that is inclined to the visual. The inspiration comes from what we know: from religion, food, nature, customs and traditions; from our Mexican universe. It is precisely that inspiration that has currently led artisans and designers to generate innovative and trendy proposals. The mixture of the knowledge of both of them, the processes that each one generates, culminates in what many call "Mexican design".

Programme in collaboration with CADA Foundation, a platform whose main aim is to foster and facilitate for local artisans and suppliers becoming part of the local and global economy. It aims to achieve, in a viral way, sustainable models from the environmental, social, and economic point of view based on a dialogue with the different communities’ artisan approach.

Structure and content

This trip will allow participants to know and reflect on the context in which this phenomenon of the intersection between crafts, design and art is developing. There will be:

  • meetings with artisans, designers and artists,
  • practical workshops to explore different materials and techniques such as wood, clay, textile, tin, engraving,
  • visits to archaeological sites, and
  • living experiences related to gastronomy and Oaxaca's biodiversity.

The trip lasts two weeks, including weekends. The schedule of activities per day is approximately 8 hours, except for two days in which the activities will be shorter to give participants the opportunity to rest and do their own activities.

Teaching Staff

Programme leader: Carmen Malvar
Cultural Liasion: Ana Paula Fuentes

Student profile

Minimum: 12 participants
Maximum: 14 participants
Area: Design, Arts, Architecture Students or Professionals

Flights & arrival

Flights are not included in the price 
You should arrive on September 2nd to Oaxaca 
There will be a welcome dinner the night of Sept 2nd

Hotel

Shared double rooms.
Breakfast and lunch included (dinner not included).

Contact and more information

director@cadafoundation.com

Practical information

Language

Knowledge of Spanish is not necessary; a translator is always on hand. If you speak a little Spanish it will enhance your visit. Mexicans are extremely hospitable and patient.

Documentation/Passport & Mexican Travel Visa

Citizens traveling to Mexico are required to carry a current passport (for participants from Spain, please check the requirements at the Mexican Embassy in Spain).
It is your responsibility to obtain proper documentation. Participants must contact your embassy, consulate or national airline of the country you are traveling to for entry requirements.
Most travelers need a Mexican Visa to travel in Mexico. Confirm these conditions with your embassy. This document, called Forma Migratoria Múltiple will be given to you on the airplane as you fly into Mexico and stamped as you go through customs. Keep this visa safe. If you lose it you will be fined and possibly delayed as you leave the country.

Cash & Money Exchange

We recommend bringing an ATM or debit card for accessing money. ATM machines are ample and modern and available in most of the towns we stay in. You may also bring cash or travelers’ cheques to exchange for pesos at banks or exchange houses, but there will be limited access to these. Most places won’t accept credit cards for purchases, though you can use them at an ATM machine or bank to get cash if you know your pin. Non-Mexican pesos are not accepted for purchases in southern Mexico and personal cheques are worthless here.

Dress and Behaviour

Some of the villages and homes we will be visiting are very traditional. Though there are no taboos, it is respectful to dress conservatively. Shorts, short dresses, sleeveless shirts, tank tops, and tight-fitting clothing are not recommended in the villages. Dress in larger cities or in coastal towns is less conservative. A sun hat is highly recommended.
To promote your personal safety, we recommend mantaining a low profile, aside dressing discreetly, not wearing jewelry, expensive equipment,  travelling with limited amount of cash, etc. Consumption of alcohol should be in compliance with local regulations, remembering that alcohol consumption in public should be responsible and moderate to avoid vulnerability or unsafe situations. We strongly advise not to bring into the country, consume or purchase any drugs. 

Extra Time

During your we will be seeing and doing things that tourists never get to do, but you might also want to take some time to do what tourists do: see the ruins and golden churches, wander the museums, galleries, and markets, stroll aimlessly in the amazing central park, head for the quiet Pacific coast…we highly recommend making the most of your trip and scheduling some extra time here before or after your tour.

Health Concerns

Please read the U.S.A. Center for Disease Control  or your national Health Department recommendations for travel in Mexico and consider consulting your doctor about your specific needs.
The most common health issue in Mexico for tourists is traveler’s diarrhea caused by microbes our guts are not accustomed to. Washing hands before meals is an excellent preventative measure and it is a good idea to bring hand wipes or no-water soap. We generally have pure water available in the van and bottled water is readily available in stores. Dehydration is a common problem with diarrhea. Gatorade is a decent rehydration drink and is available in Mexico. For a better quality rehydrant consider traveling with powdered Hydralite or equivalent 
If you are taking prescription medicine, bring your own supply, including a copy of your prescription. Bring an extra pair of glasses if you use them.
In case of accident, injury, illness or theft, you may want to consider taking out travelers insurance if your policy doesn’t cover such things.

Medical Requirements

Good physical and mental health are essential for the enjoyment of these rural workshops and trips. You may travel in rugged areas removed from modern medical facilities. Good physical conditioning is recommended as preparation for all trips. By forwarding the deposit and signed Reservation Form, the passenger certifies that he/she does not have any physical or other condition of disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other passengers. It is essential that any participant with a medical condition requiring regular treatment or which may be affected by moderate physical activity, high altitude, heat, cold, humidity, dust, other natural phenomena, unsanitary conditions or particular foods, notifies CADA FOUNDATION  and the trip leaders, in writing,  in advance of travel.
CADA FOUNDATION assumes no liability for medical care nor for special dietary requirements. Participants may be required to furnish a doctor’s statement of good health. The judgment of CADA FOUNDATION or the local operator or guide shall make the ultimate determination of an individual trip participant’s fitness to embark upon or to continue a trip.
Medical circumstances will not be considered as exceptions to our cancellation policy. All participants must be covered by a current medical insurance policy applicable for overseas travel for the duration of their trip, under their responsibility. Proof of coverage may be required.

Contact Information

All participants must fill out the participation form, which  includes personal contact information of two persons who should be notified in case of emergency, including  basical healthcare information: blood type information and specific medicine allergies (for instance: aspirin, penicillin, etc), medications, health condition.
 

Programme + daily itinerary