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Egypt

Takhshīna تخشينة

Takhshīna is a programme to support the independent cultural scene in Cairo by providing space: Space to work, to rehearse, and to discover new ideas.

TakhshĪna تخشينة

In the Egyptian dialect, the word "Takhshīnaتخشينة" describes an object used to restore the functionality and support the stability of a household item, such as a wobbly table or door, most closely translated as the word "Spahn". The programme Takhshīna comprises different activities at the premises of the Goethe-Institut in Bustan which provide the independent cultural scene in Cairo with a similar aid to this small accessory of everyday Egyptian life.

The following spatial facilities can be used for art project related workshops, rehearsals, sessions, and the development of other forms of art projects: Studio Takhshīna,Atelier Takhshīna³ and Annex Takhshīna4.

The curated programme with regular exhibitions in Gallery Takshīna² allows to discover new artistic positions and approaches from Egypt, the MENA region and Germany. Supplementary, you will find in Lounge Takhshīna5 activities and information on changing current topics.

Open Call: Takhshīna Workspaces

Takhshīna Workspaces for Artists and Cultural Practitioners 2026

Takhshīna invites artists, researchers, cultural practitioners, and interdisciplinary groups to apply for access to its spaces for artistic research, development, and practice.
This open call welcomes individuals and collectives seeking a supportive environment for two periods in 2026 (February–July and September–December).

Since 2020, Takhshīna has hosted over 75 artists and cultural practitioners across diverse disciplines. Through artist residencies, workshops, and collaborative events, it has become a vital space for experimentation, exchange, and cultural production.

Open Call: Takhshina Atelier 2026

Takhshina Atelier 2026

The Takhshina Atelier 2026 program is a dedicated initiative designed to support artists in developing new or ongoing artistic projects. This program provides financial support, dedicated workspace, and a platform for public dialogue.
Recipients receive a stipend and access to the Takhshina Atelier Studio Space for a focused research and production period of 4–6 weeks, scheduled to take place between February and July 2026. The stay culminates in an opportunity to share their work and process with the community.
 

Spatial facility

All spatial facilities of the programme Takhshīna are located in the Villa Bustan, 5 Bustan Street, Downtown Cairo. The villa was built in 1920 when Ahmed Mohamed Mazloum Pasha came to Cairo and bought by Germany in 1961 for the Goethe-Institut. Since then, the building has witnessed many historical moments and has become an important cultural centre alongside other important cultural institutions in Downtown Cairo.

Studio TakhshĪna

This multi-purpose studio of 85 m² can be used for art project related workshops, sessions, rehearsals, and the development of other art projects.

Galerie TakhshĪna²

The gallery consists of two rooms in which a curated program with changing exhibitions takes place.

Atelier Takhshina³

Visual artists who work with mixed-media can use this duplex workspace with a total area of 24.5 m².

Annex TakhshĪna4

The 28.8 m² room is equipped with a dance floor, ballet barres, mirrors and speakers to host rehearsals of dance and performance projects for single or duo pieces.

Lounge TakhshĪna5

The lounge is a multi-purpose space where you can relax, take a break, and find information on changing current topics.

Contact

takhshina-kairo@goethe.de