The Shake exhibition was the culmination of the Tier 2 partnership between The MAC in Belfast and coculture in Berlin, led by coculture's artistic director Khaled Barakeh - a Syrian multidisciplinary conceptual artist, activist, and cultural director based in Berlin.
The following film and article was orginally posted by The MAC Belfast on their website.
As part of The Shake, an exhibition by artist Khaled Barakeh, we hosted a series of community-focused interventions exploring themes of reconciliation. These included thought-provoking conversations and a powerful commissioned dance piece.
Led by dancers Janie Doherty and Rosie Mullan, the Shake Dance Project brought together 11 women—mental health campaigners and individuals with lived experience of the asylum system. Through movement and collaboration, they created a deeply personal and politically resonant performance, which was showcased at two events addressing reconciliation and activism.
“I am blown away. We smashed it. The piece today was epic. Our journey has been wonderful together, and we formed a special, unique, and beautiful bond. I felt something really powerful in the dance. The audience was so close to the action, and I could feel their presence. Truly powerful and an experience I will never forget.” The Shake Dance Project Participant / PPR Mental Health Activist
Art & Activism: Shaping the Future of Northern Ireland
Inspired by the themes of The Shake, we hosted Exploring Art, Activism, and the Future of Northern Ireland in partnership with Create, Ireland’s national development agency for collaborative arts. This gathering brought together 50 artists, activists, and community members from across the island to discuss pressing local, national, and global issues while fostering meaningful connections and networks.
Inspired by the themes of The Shake, we hosted Exploring Art, Activism, and the Future of Northern Ireland in partnership with Create, Ireland’s national development agency for collaborative arts. This gathering brought together 50 artists, activists, and community members from across the island to discuss pressing local, national, and global issues while fostering meaningful connections and networks.
Exploring Art & Reconciliation: A Conversation
In collaboration with Politics in Action and the Social Change Initiative, we facilitated a dialogue on art, activism, and reconciliation, using The Shake as a starting point to reimagine the future of Northern Ireland. This event explored key themes such as shared education and the legacy of the Good Friday Agreement, with participation from notable figures, including Minister for Northern Ireland Fleur Anderson, ACNI Chair Liam Hanaway, and women’s rights advocate Bronagh Hinds.
“The event was refreshing and brave for an arts organisation.” Human Rights Activist
Through these events, we continue to use art as a catalyst for dialogue, healing, and transformation.